James Boswell is a well-known and colourful 18th Century literary figure. He is most famous for his biography of Dr Johnson, but he was also a master diarist who wrote an intimate chronicle of his life and experiences, notably his London Journal. The previous High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire is a descendant of James Boswell and established the prize as an opportunity for young writers in Buckinghamshire. Boswell Diary Prize entries are open to school-age students who live in Buckinghamshire.

2007

This year’s challenge was to write a day in the life of a teenager.

The prize-giving for this second Boswell Diary Competition took place on the evening of the 29th November 2007 at the Judges Lodgings, Aylesbury.  Each of the 10 finalists were invited to bring 4 guests to join in the reception with representatives of their schools and the education department as well as the Mayors of Aylesbury, Buckingham, Chesham and Milton Keynes.  The High Sheriff introduced the guest speaker, Godfrey Howard, who was followed by Buckinghamshire's English Advisor, Simon Wrigley and then Alexander Boswell, the previous High Sheriff, who instituted the competition. 

The winners were :-

15 and under class Kitty - Ho of Ousedale School, Milton Keynes

Over 15 class Naomi - Lynes of Aylesbury High School

Overall winner - Hannah Austin of Aylesbury High School

Hannah received the silver cup from Jane Boswell

Each prize winner received a cheque as well as the certificate and book awarded to every finalist.