Our panel of expert judges will choose a selection of finalists from all submissions. Mail readers and Hobbycraft customers will be asked to vote for the winner.
The same panel will select the Junior prize winner and the Junior runner-up prize winner. This will not be open to public vote. The judges’ decision is final.
Andy Fletcher joined Together for Short Lives, the UK charity for children’s palliative care as the Chief Executive in June 2018 having been the Chief Executive of Longfield, a provider of community hospice care in Gloucestershire, since June 2015. A teacher by training, Andy is passionate about making sure all seriously ill children get the support they need, when they need it. Outside work, he loves the theatre, watching Bath Rugby where he is a season ticket holder and spending time with his family.
Abby is an illustrator who aims to create a bridge between words and imagination that can help young readers advance their reading capabilities. She has already been involved in seven self-published children’s books, ranging from picture books to chapter books. Abby is keen to encourage the joy of drawing and support young illustrators from all backgrounds through workshops. She is extremely mindful of the lack of inclusivity in British publishing and is passionate about reflecting the diversity of the UK on children’s bookshelves.
Vicky is an award-winning florist, print designer and a seasoned all round crafter. As a Hobbycraft Artisan Manager she works closely with Hobbycraft’s team of expert Artisan colleagues to design and host a fantastic range of Hobbycraft workshops. At home Vicky continues to look for new crafts to learn alongside planning the next growing season for her family allotment and spending time with her husband and three boys.
Janet is an accomplished author, presenter and actor. The former Blue Peter presenter has a love of craft including sewing, tapestry and mosaics and collages, and her creative pursuits extends to writing, with her first novel, The Butcher’s Hook, being published in 2016. Her love of the written word inspired her to enter the world of podcasts, and Janet presents Twice Upon A Time, which focuses on children’s literature.