Florrie: A Football Love Story by Anna Trench, set in early 20th-century Norfolk and exploring the hidden history of women’s football, won the Book of the Year title at the East Anglian Book Awards 2025.

Ms Trench said: "I am thrilled that my graphic novel, Florrie: A Football Love Story, has won Book of the Year at the East Anglian Book Awards 2025.

"I’m very grateful to the judges for recognising Florrie.

Florrie (Image: Supplied)

"I was delighted to be shortlisted, and I’m overjoyed to have won."

The graphic novel charts the journey of a young female footballer navigating love and ambition against the backdrop of the FA’s 1921 ban on women’s football.

The judges praised its "pertinent" themes and "exquisite" illustrations.

Peggy Hughes, CEO at the National Centre for Writing, said: "Anna’s debut graphic novel is that rare gem: a book as accessible to adults as it is to young adults.

"It expertly weaves the hidden history of women’s football into a vibrant, adventurous story."

© Eastern Daily Press