We are thrilled to share the contest results for the summer of 2025. Writers were invited to explore humour in all its forms. Guest judge Tim Wynne-Jones selected the final entries and you can read his short comment about each winning story.

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• First Place: The Serious Business of Escape, by Elspeth Tory

"There is a wonderful balancing act here of humour and pathos that I found moving (and, from my own experience with my mother, all too  sadly believable). While this is an elegantly crafted short story, I could easily imagine Jennifer being the central character of a larger work, a series  of connected stories, say, or a novel. Her character is brought to vibrant life, in succinct fashion, through her actions and words, We feel such empathy, not just for those living on “the locked memory floor,” but for those who visit there, never knowing quite what they might find."

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• Second Place: Why Seniors Should Work for the CIA, by Mike Keenan

​"This story is a delight. Maybe it’s not so much a story as a PSA, but, as such, perfectly targeting those of us lucky enough to have survived 'disco, polyester suits, and kids who think avocado toast is a personality trait.' Smart and witty — a winning combo."

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• Third Place: Pirate Queen of the Inner City, by Brian McCullough​

"There’s probably no better way to brighten up a dreary existence than to have a ghostly ancestor show up, intent on atoning his misspent past as a pirate by offloading his ill-gotten fortune upon you. Such is Miranda’s happy fate in this grown-up, urban fairytale. And Miranda does seem to  have the sass and sexiness to fill any pirate’s thigh-high boots in style. She also seems to have a heart of gold which makes for a sweetly  meaningful resolution."

 

Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to everyone who participated. It’s a pleasure to share these pieces with you, and we can’t wait to see what you create in the next contest!