h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi, Sol.

Do you remember The Stretcher? A45104906

It was a writing competition in The Post in 2009, run by Pinniped (Elvised), Skankyrich (Elvised) and Galaxy Babe (Happy for me to ressurect it). I'm quite keen on running a "second season", as it could be a good way of attracting new writing talent to the site. (I might even stump up for a prize...)

Anyway, I know you're one of the main movers and shakers behind Create, and this sort of contest is fairly similar to what you guys do. As such, I'd like to check you don't feel that this is stepping on your toes, and ask if you'd like a spot on the judging panel?

Don't feel you have to say yes to either. If it's infringing on Create's remit, I'll be happy to find a new idea that I can work alongside you with. And if you're too busy to judge a competition that could last months, I'll pressgang another likely sort (we need three judges anyway...).

So, basically, do you and the Create team have any issue with me running a writing contest in The Post? And if you're happy for me to proceed, would you like to be a judge?

OMG. I loved the Stretcher, which I lurked like mad. Create was inspired by it actually - I really enjoyed watching what different people did with the same prompt.

Now Create is going through a bit of a reorganisation at the moment, and I am not running it, but I would be terribly surprised if they/ we had any objection. I expect, in fact, that we will want to help you - keep whatever month you are planning to launch it in free or whatever so Create can promote this instead.

As for being a judge, I'm very flattered, and the answer is, it depends.

But basically WHEEEEEE! How cool! Go for it.

It depends? Is this where I have to start bribing?

It's more about logistics. Plus, actually a good part of me wants to do it not judge it.

Speaking of which (I said this on Skype too), Lanza's invited you to the Create Trello board - I wonder if you would mind explaining your idea again there. I don't want you to feel as though we would try to take over because hahahahahaha, no. Really no. (It sounds like a lot of work ) But it would be helpful for co-ordination purposes for people to have a rough idea at least of what you are planning. Plus, if you do need anything, then that's a good place to get it.

Although at some point those not helping you would have to run away so they can take part of they want!

I'll put something on Trello this evening.

Just looked at Trello - I've been added to Comms, not to Create...

Should be sorted now!

Excellent. I'll add a post there this afternoon, explaining my plans. I want to use it as a promotion for the EG too, but all will become clear later!