DOMVS, in collaboration with Academy and Emmy Award winner Lord Julian Fellowes, announced the winner of their annual writing competition at an awards ceremony held in the historic grand Victorian Hall at the Dorset Museum & Art Gallery, Dorchester, on Thursday 9th January.
The competition, now in its sixth year, celebrates the creativity and storytelling skills of students aged 5-12. This year’s event saw its highest number of entries from schools across Dorset, with students showcasing their writing talents starting with a prompt provided by Lord Fellowes of “I cannot believe I left the door open”.
DOMVS received almost 150 entries from schools across the county, which were judged by Lord and Lady Fellowes. A shortlist of 18 entrants were invited to attend the awards ceremony with members of their family, where the winner, runner-up and two highly commended entrants were announced and honoured with certificates and prizes as follows:
- Winner: Lillemo, Damers First School
- Runner-Up: Matilda, Southill Primary School
- Highly Commended: Rose, Perrott Hill School
- Highly Commended: Lysander, Southill Primary School
The evening was a celebration of young voices and creativity, with attendees enjoying readings of the winning entries honoured at an inspiring awards ceremony.
Polly Greenway, CEO of DOMVS says: “It’s truly inspiring to see how this competition continues to flourish. The imagination and skill these young writers bring to their stories is admirable. Story House provides a wonderful platform for them to shine, and we are so grateful to the schools, families and, of course, Lord and Lady Fellowes for their ongoing support in making this event such a great success.”
Lord Julian Fellowes, local actor, novelist, film director, and screenwriter comments: “The brilliance of these young writers never ceases to amaze me. Literacy is not just a skill; it’s the foundation for a lifetime of opportunity. The Story House competition continues to inspire budding writers and highlight the importance of creative expression, and we are proud to champion this initiative, which grows year by year. Their creativity and talent prove just how bright the future of storytelling is in Dorset and it’s a privilege to celebrate their achievements.”
Louise Greenham, Headteacher of Damers First School, Dorchester added: “The children love writing and this was a brilliant chance to show off their talents as budding writers – we are thrilled to see Lillemo win a well-deserved prize. Thank you, DOMVS, for this wonderful opportunity!”
Participation in the Story House competition is open to schools across Dorset, in which students are encouraged to submit hand-written short stories in English based on a thought-provoking prompt. For those looking forward to taking part, entries for next year’s competition will open in September 2025, inviting schools from across Dorset to join in celebrating the literary stars of tomorrow.
Media Contact
Polly Greenway, CEO
DOMVS
T. 01305 757 300
E. [email protected]
About DOMVS
DOMVS is an award-winning estate agency with a network of offices providing sales, lettings, holiday lets and land advisory services across the entire Dorset county. With a reputation built on honesty, determination and empathy, DOMVS has been exceeding its clients’ expectations since 2005.
As featured in Dorset Echo: Lord Fellowes hands out awards at writing competition and Bridport News: Downton Abbey creator praises young writers.
