The annual competition spotlights new talent in memory of the late Big Finish staff member Paul Spragg.

Doctor Who audio producers Big Finish Productions have opened submissions for their annual Paul Spragg Memorial Writers’ Opportunity.

Since 2016, the process has generated a series of memorable tales which are released for free to listeners.

Now in its tenth year, the competition is looking for a new writer who will see their idea for a Doctor Who short story developed, recorded and published at Christmastime.

In recent years, the organisers have narrowed the competition to look for something specific. In 2024, the theme of the Time War generated the witty and charming ‘War Stories’ by Patrick Ross.

This year, with the arrival of the Thirteenth Doctor on audio, they’re looking for a story featuring Jodie Whittaker’s Doctor.

Big Finish’s Executive Producer Nicholas Briggs said:

“This is always a lovely reminder of Paul, and the good times we shared with him. Having recently been in studio with Jodie and Mandip for our Thirteenth Doctor Adventures, witnessing their warmth and enthusiasm first hand, it occurs to me that matching this era with Paul’s positivity seems highly appropriate.”

Submissions need to consist of a one page synopsis and a one-page excerpt from your story, both of no longer than 500 words each. For all the essential information, check out the 2025 Guidelines and Terms & Conditions on the Big Finish website. The competition runs for five weeks, closing Thursday 12th June 2025.

Previous Winners

All the previous winners available to download for free from Big Finish. They come with bonus content that includes downloads of the original winning submissions and the final studio scripts.

You can also check out our reviews of all the previous winners: ‘Forever Fallen’, ‘Landbound‘, ‘The Last Day at Work’, ‘The Best-Laid Plans’, ‘Free Speech’, ‘The Lichyrwick Abomination’, ‘The World Tree’, ‘The Hoxteth Time Capsule’ and ‘War Stories’.