A BRAND new writing competition in Helensburgh and Lomond has launched.

Marking the start of a new month, LiveArgyll Libraries has started a new 'flash fiction' writing competition.

Enthusiastic writers are asked to write a story, poem or article of no more than 500 words which includes the month's writing prompt.

This month's prompt is 'growing' as the month of May is named after Maia, the god of growth.

The competition is open to people over the age of 16, and a prize will be awarded to the author of the winning entry.

The closing date to submit is Friday, May 31.

Entries are to be submitted to Scott Douglas at scott.douglas@liveargyll.co.uk.

Alternatively you can hand in your entry to any LiveArgyll library, including the facilities in Cardross, Helensburgh and Rosneath.

For more information, including all terms and conditions visit liveargyll.co.uk/flash-fiction.