Schoolchildren are being invited to submit an article for a new competition to promote Dorset’s disappearing histories.

The Dorset Archives Trust has announced the details of the the inaugural Kate Adie’s Historical Literacy Award.

Aimed at students in years 7 and 8 the competition encourages pupils to engage with original sources from the archives as well as developing literacy skills.

Details have been sent out to all Dorset middle and secondary schools.

Chairman of the Dorset Archives Trust Carola Campbell said: “One of the main roles of the Dorset Archives Trust is to promote Dorset’s disappearing histories. What better way to do this then by engaging young people with sources from the archives and the stories behind them.”

Children will be asked to write a short newspaper article no more than 500 words (one or two small pictures may be included). Entries must be typed and emailed.

The article must be based on an original source from the archives at the Dorset History Centre in Dorchester. A selection of sources will be available, with background information.

There are cash prizes for the winners. The competition deadline is May 31, 2019.

For more information contact enquiries@dorsetarchivestrust.org