I'm not sure specifically as I don't know which 'the contest short story' you are referring to. It could be about a competition, perhaps a writing contest where the story itself is either the entry or about the experiences within the contest.
Well, you can start by looking for literary agents or publishers that specialize in short stories. Submit your work along with a well-written cover letter.
Well, for a YA short story contest, common requirements include a word count range, like 3,000 to 8,000 words. Also, the story might need to fit within a given genre or topic. And often, there are rules about originality and submission format.
First, have a clear understanding of the contest theme. Then, do extensive research if needed. Polish your writing, check for grammar errors, and make the story emotionally resonant with readers.
One characteristic is the strong sense of place. UK fiction often vividly describes the UK landscapes, like the moors in 'Wuthering Heights'. Another is the exploration of class differences. For example, many stories show the interactions between the upper - class and the lower - class. Also, the use of rich language with a touch of British humor and irony is common.
Well, one way is to look for literary magazines that accept submissions. Many of them have specific guidelines and themes, so make sure your story fits.