Winners announced for Oxfordshire Libraries Short Story Competition 2026
A story about an unexpected adventure while shopping for ice cream, a love story between two mythical creatures, and a gripping murder mystery have won an annual Oxfordshire competition.
They have each been announced as the three winning entries in the Oxfordshire County Council Library Service’s 2026 Short Story Competition.
The annual contest invites people of all ages to share their creativity, with this year’s entries showcasing exceptional storytelling talent from across the county.
The winning stories are now available to read on the Oxfordshire Libraries OverDrive page and through the Libby app.
Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: “Our short story competition is always popular, and generates such amazing levels of creativity and engagement. We very much appreciate all the efforts that our local authors go to, and choosing a winner is always a very tough task. Thank you and well done to all our talented writers.”
Meet the winners
Adult category winner: Kita Mitchell - What We Cover Up
Kita Mitchell’s absorbing story follows lifelong friends Tanya and Sandra, whose familiar bickering hides a deep loyalty - one that quickly becomes essential when they discover a body in Sandra’s garage.
Kita said: “I was delighted to hear that ‘What We Cover Up’ had won the competition. I’ve not written anything for adults before, so it meant a lot, and it’s especially nice that the recognition comes from libraries, which are such important places for so many people. I hope everyone enjoys reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.”
Young adult winner: Pepper Thomasina - The Willow by the Lake
This poetic tale centres on a naiad and a dryad whose love flourishes in their natural world - until the arrival of humans threatens everything they know.
17 year old Pepper said: “I was in total shock and I still am to be honest!. Nothing will ever compare to the feeling of being told that you're good at what you love. Stories have always been such a comfort to me, and it makes me so indescribably happy that my story has brought joy to others."
Children’s winner: Ella Uglow – I Only Wanted Ice Cream
A simple shopping trip takes an enchanting and unexpected turn in this imaginative wintery adventure.
Ella, 11, said: “I felt very excited to find out I'd won the competition - it was quite surreal! It feels nice that my story will be shared with other children in Oxfordshire. Thank you!”
Sign up to hear from us and receive the latest news and updates in our fortnightly newsletter, Your Oxfordshire.