A new songwriting competition 'Songs for Social Justice Award'. is being launched by Celtic Connections and the Alistair Hulett Memorial Trust.

Alistair was a songwriter, singer and campaigner for social justice who died in January 2010 and this competition follows the sell out tribute concert at Celtic Connections in January this year with Dick Gaughan, Roy Bailey, Karine Polwart and many others.

The competition is open to songwriters and musicians from across the UK and is for songs that promote equality and social justice. The judges include Peggy Seeger, Roy Bailey and Karine Polwart. The winners of the award will perform at the 2012 Alistair Hulett Tribute Concert at Celtic Connections and receive a cash prize.

Entries should be on a CD with an accompanying lyrics sheet and should be sent to The Alistair Hulett Memorial Trust, 19 Millar Grove, Hamilton, ML3 9BF. The closing date for entries is 26 October 2011.