Writing residency: Writers in the Forest

The Forestry Commission is searching for two writers to tell the story of the nation's forests

As part of its centenary in 2019, the Forestry Commission is looking to appoint two writers in residence to create new work to tell the stories of England's wooded landscapes.

PK Khaira-Creswell, director of the Forestry Commission Centenary, said: 'The nation’s forests have long been a well of creativity, inspiring work that has moved generations. To celebrate 100 years of forestry, we’re giving emerging and mid-career writers a chance to put their own stamp on what trees and woods mean to them, and share those sentiments with the wider world.'

Two national writers in residence will start work in spring 2019, observing foresters, ecologists, scientists and researchers on a behind-the-scenes tour of the nation's forests and understanding the wildlife that live in them and the people who work there. Each appointed writer will receive a £2,500 stipend.

Applications may come from writers of poetry, prose, fiction or fact. The Forestry Commission is hoping for a diverse range of applications. Writers are invited to submit a CV and a written pitch up to 750 words, or video or audio, outlining their vision. The closing date to apply for the Writers in the Forest residencies is 14 January.

Throughout 2019 the Forestry Commission will celebrate 100 years of forestry with a programme of events taking place throughout England celebrating the vital contribution forests make to enhancing our wellbeing, economy and environment. It will also look ahead to the next hundred years, at how forests will continue to play a critical role in underpinning the resilience of our environment, landscapes and economy into the future.

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