NORTH West Playwrights -- one of only two independent organisations supporting new writing in the UK -- celebrates its 20th birthday this year.

And to mark its anniversary, the organisation has commissioned a new play from Linda Brogan, whose work was chosen from more than 50 writers who have been affiliated with the group over the past 20 years.

Linda was presented with the cheque for the commission by Cheryl Martin, Chair of North West Playwrights, at Contact in Manchester. Her play Basil and Beattie will receive its world premiere later this year at one or more venues in the North West region.

Three of the best from the remaining 49 submissions will receive rehearsed readings as part of the anniversary celebrations. These are Sellotape by Pam Leeson, Glammer by John Myatt and Light Entertainment by Mark Roberts.

Chris Bridgman, co-director of North West Playwrights said: "This will be a great opportunity for people to sample some of the outstanding new theatre that's being created in this region. The success of the four playwrights should be an encouragement to aspiring writers. Four years ago, Linda Brogan had never written anything for the stage. Now she's adding this commission to two major national awards and she's just finished a residency at Contact."