Waterstone’s ran a writing competition for a Bookseller’s Bursary with a cash prize, a place on an Arvon course, paid leave to attend the course and a trophy . I was shortlisted and invited to a “do” for the announcement of the two winners. Sadly I developed Urticaria and had to spend the morning in A&E instead of going to London as planned. Apparently I have had a massive allergic reaction to something and am now on steroids and antihistamine tablets. I feel very sorry for myself, and am ITCHY beyond belief. I am literally smothered by these gruesome lumps.
I came home from hospital feeling very glum, and then received the news that I had won!
I think it’s fantastic that Waterstone’s is supporting the many budding writers that are drawn to working in its stores. This is a superb prize, and I am chuffed to bits. It’s going to be a real pleasure choosing a course to attend and I’m hoping it’ll help me get my novel whipped into shape.
So, boo to rashes and illness, but a massive yay to Waterstone’s and Arvon.
Sara Crowley 
Congratulations! That's great news. It's a shame you couldn't make it to the announcement. I hope you feel better soon.
Congratulations, Sara. Unfortunately you weren't there to revel in the announcement, but still fantastic news. Enjoy, and get better soon.
Brilliant, well done!!
That's fantastic news – congratulations!
Wowsers! Huge congrats. That's excellent.Get well soon x
How cool is that?! Well done you.Hope you get the cause of your allergy found and eliminated soon, poor you 😦
Thank you so much James, Rohan, Jessica, Steven, Nuala and Rachel. I am very pleased, and bloody itchy. (And a teensy bit sad that I didn't get to be in a room and hear my name announced as a winner because that would have been splendid!)
It is fantastic, and well deserved, too. I'm happy for you, Sara. You must be thrilled. Well done you.Cheers,Bob
Wow! Well done and much deserved!:)
fucking brilliant…. onward…
You twinkly little star, you!! Well done well done!
Bob, thank you for your kind comment.Jenn, Steve, Vanessa – Thanks so much. And yes…onward, forwards, hopefully upwards…
Congratulations Sara! I have read your blog and stories for ages now and am well pleased you won this. Hope you enjoy the course and get the novel finished.Rob
That's absolutely brillo pads! You must have the itch of immense fantasticness.
Rob – thank you so much. I'm really hoping that an Arvon course is just what I need to get this thing done! I've just had a look at your blog, and ooh, proofs! You must be so, so excited. It looks ace. I look forward to selling heaps of copies!Kellie – ah yeah, that'll be it, the itch of immense fantasticness, that's me all over!