The search is on for young people in Dumbarton and the Vale with a budding talent for writing or drawing.

Scottish Book Trust has announced that applications are open for their What’s Your Story? programme.

Marc Lambert, CEO of Scottish Book Trust, said: “Nurturing new young talent in the Scottish literary scene is so important.

“The programme offers a truly unique opportunity and we urge parents and teachers to encourage the teens in their lives with a passion for writing or illustration to apply.”

14 to 17 year olds are encouraged to apply for an all expenses paid opportunity to learn, grow and create as a storyteller or illustrator.

This year, applicants can submit a video about why they should be selected for the programme, or complete the written application form.

Beccie, a 2019 participant, said: “I would really encourage everyone to apply to the What’s Your Story? programme. The mentoring is amazing, Scottish Book Trust really think about what story you want to tell, and what you want to learn during the programme and then match you with someone perfect.

“I think it’s really important that young people’s voices are heard, and through organising StoryCon we had the chance to define exactly what we wanted to learn.”

Teens selected for the programme will take part in an induction weekend at the National Library of Scotland to gain inspiration and will be paired with a professional mentor to work with over six months.

They will also take part in a week-long retreat at Moniack Mhor, Scotland’s Creative Writing Centre, where they will have dedicated time with their mentors.

The participants get to plan and host StoryCon 2020, Scotland’s biggest creative writing and illustration conference for young people.

Then the young people’s creative projects developed during the programme will be previewed at a showcase event.

What’s Your Story? is free to take part in, and travel expenses are covered for all participants.

Applications close on November 27, and can be made at thestoryis.co.uk/storyboard.