LOCAL writers are being invited to sharpen their pencils and their prose ahead of the publication of the region's respected literary publication, Eildon Tree.

And a special invitation is being made to anyone who has, or still does, have mental health problems.

The magazine is dedicated to publishing new poetry and short stories by fresh and emerging writers from Scotland, with a focus on the Scottish Borders.

It also features reviews of plays and books, as well as articles and interviews from the region and beyond.

There are very few literary magazines remaining in Scotland and Eildon Tree is recognised as offering opportunities for new and emerging writers to be published.

Eildon Tree editor Julian Colton told us: Eildon Tree represents a unique opportunity for poets and fiction writers from and beyond the Borders to make a name for themselves, as well as still having the opportunity of seeing their work published in a highly polished, esteemed literary magazine."

As well as Julian, the periodical is also edited by writers Iona Macgregor, Sara Clark and Carol Norris.

And all four support others to develop and improve their writing and get published, including groups such as the Kelso Writers Group and the Peebles library group.

The next issue of Eildon Tree, due out in May as part of Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival, will feature submissions on the theme of Connected.

The editors are inviting submissions from anyone who has experienced mental health issues, even if they are new to writing.

The creative writing magazine is produced by the Creative Communities Team at Live Borders

Lisa Denham from Live Borders said: “Our Eildon Tree community writing magazine is well established in the Scottish Borders literary scene and with support this year from NHS Borders and Scottish Borders Council’s Joint Health Improvement Team, our aim is to grow the magazine and reach new audiences, challenging the misunderstanding that sometimes surrounds mental health and wellbeing.

"For the next edition, we would like to receive submissions from writers, new or aspiring, based on the theme, Connected.

"Everyone has a story to tell and research shows that the effects of writing can reduce anxiety, increase self-awareness and overall make us healthier, happier and stronger.”

Writers may submit a maximum of four poems, stories or articles up to 3,000 words each, which and should be accompanied by a brief biography, up to 40 words.

Artwork and photography on the theme of Connection is also welcome.

Deadline for submissions Friday, March 22.

Send submissions to: eildontree@liveborders1.org.uk