Young storytellers take centre stage in Sanderson Arcade’s World Book Day challenge
17 February 2026
Imaginations and pens at the ready - a brand-new mystery is waiting to be solved in Morpeth, as Sanderson Arcade launches a special children’s writing competition to celebrate World Book Day!
World Book Day, taking place on Thursday 5th March, is a global celebration of books and reading.
To mark the occasion, the team at Sanderson Arcade are inviting young storytellers to get creative and take part in a fun and imaginative challenge.
School-aged children are encouraged to write a story inspired by the title “The Beadle and the Lost Top Hat” - a chance to bring characters to life while paying tribute to the Arcade’s much-loved Beadles and their iconic top hats.
The winning story will be proudly displayed within the Arcade, and its talented author will receive a £20 Waterstones voucher.
The competition opens today (Tuesday 17th February) and the winner will be announced on World Book Day. Entry forms can be collected from - and returned to - Waterstones at Sanderson Arcade, with a final submission deadline of Monday 2nd March.
Lottie Thompson, Centre Manager at Sanderson Arcade, said: “We’re really excited to be celebrating World Book Day with a creative competition that encourages children to explore their imaginations.
We’ve had some fantastic entries in previous years, and we can’t wait to read this year’s stories based on the theme ‘The Beadle and the Lost Top Hat’.”
For the latest news and event updates from Sanderson Arcade, visit up to date with news and events at Sanderson Arcade visit www.sandersonarcade.co.uk
For further information, contact:-
Public Relations Department, Dransfield Properties Ltd
Tel: 01226 360644
Email: admin@dransfield.co.uk
