New writing award in memory of student
SABHAL Mòr Ostaig, the Gaelic education college on the Isle of Skye, is instituting a new writing competition in memory of Niamh Henderson, who died suddenly last year.
Niamh, from Mallaig, was a first-year student at the college, studying the Gaelic and Communications course.
The competition will be open to all college and university students in Scotland. Entrants are invited to write a Gaelic short story, between 1,500 and 2,000 words, on the theme of mystery.
The winner will receive a prize of £200, as well as a trophy donated by Niamh’s family. The submission deadline is at the end of April and the winner will be presented with the award at the college’s annual graduation ceremony in October.
Niamh’s parents, Hamish and Màiri, said: ‘Niamh was very happy at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and she was enjoying the course she was taking very much indeed. She made many friends at the college and she hoped to go on to train as a Gaelic teacher.
‘We are grateful to the college for commemorating her through an annual competition like this.’
College principal Professor Boyd Robertson commented: ‘Niamh was much-loved and highly regarded by students and staff, and it is fitting that she be remembered by means of a writing competition, as she had a passion for literature of all genres, for stories and for creative writing.’
Further information about the competition can be obtained from Christine Mackenzie at runaire@smo.uhi.ac.uk or on 01471 888200.