Jacqueline Wilson has given a major financial boost to the Branford Boase Award again this year (2008). She comments:
“I have a special affection for this prize since I was invited to be the first Author Judge in 2000. Since then the prize has grown in stature with 36 titles submitted last year (2004), reflecting a great enthusiasm for new writing amongst publishers and readers alike. It can be such a struggle for new writers starting out that I am thrilled to be able to offer this support to a prize which can make a real difference to their prospects”.