Wainwright Prize rebrands and launches children's book category

The Wainwright Prize has been rebranded to the James Cropper Wainwright Prize following a multi-year commitment for sponsorship from the sustainable paper maker. 

The award, which celebrates writing inspired by the outdoors, has also launched a third category for books on nature and conservation specifically written for children.

Now in its ninth year, prize organisers have announced TV presenters Ray Mears, Charlotte Smith and Gemma Hunt will chair the prize judging panel, which includes former winner Raynor Winn,environmental blogger Lizzie Carr and ethical clothes manufacturer Charlotte Morley.

The prize logo and artwork have been redesigned for 2022, with the aim of reflecting the history of the prize, the beauty of nature and the connection between the written word and the natural world. 

Mark Cropper, chairman of James Cropper, said: “Young people are more aware than ever before of the impact which everyday things have on the planet. That’s why we are thrilled at the introduction of a children’s book prize to the James Cropper Wainwright Prize this year. Inspiring young book lovers to connect with the natural world and share an intrinsic attitude towards global conservation is extremely valuable at time when that natural world is under increasing threat.”

The longlists will be announced on 23rd June, with the shortlists following on 28th July. The winners’ announcement will take place on 7th September, in a venue still to be confirmed. The three winners will share a prize fund of £7,500.

The prize was founded and is still supported by both the Alfred Wainwright Estate & Frances Lincoln, publisher of the Wainwright Guides series. Recent winners include Dara McAnulty, James Rebanks, Merlin Sheldrake, Adam Nicholson and Robert MacFarlane.