Two regional literary publications were lauded on March 11th at Manchester Central Library at an event celebrating the 2008 Incwriters Outstanding Contribution to Literature (Magazine) Awards, when they were both named in the top 5.

Mslexia, the Newcastle-based national magazine for women who write, was announced as the Runner Up to overall winner Banipal, a publication which showcases Arab writers in translation. Other Poetry, based in Durham and dedicated to good poetry in all its forms, came in cosily close at fourth place.

The Incwriters Award, established in 2006 Mslexia and Transmission shared the inaugural award recognises excellence in the field of magazine publishing, and is awarded bi-annually.

Mslexia editor Daneet Steffens says, e were absolutely delighted to learn that we were shortlisted in the top ten for this award. We knew we were in excellent company: a wonderful group of publications, all passionate about writing and literature and utterly committed to keeping that passion alive among diverse audiences. Being named Runner Up was just the cherry on the top.

Inc writers read around 500 magazines for the award, eventually shortlisting it down to 20. Full details of the award and the other shortlisted magazines can be found on www.incwriters.co.uk

www.mslexia.co.uk
www.otherpoetry.com