Journalist Ed Oldfield, whose career has spanned regional newspapers from Land’s End to beyond John O’Groats, has created a website for entrants to a career in journalism.

www.beajournalist.co.uk provides a one-stop shop for people considering a career in journalism as well as journalism students and trainees. And it links to a dedicated forum designed to answer questions about the job and for students and trainees to share their experience of courses and work placements.

Ed, (45), who lives in Exmouth, Devon, said: “I realised that there was no independent dedicated site for people interested in a career in journalism, or just starting out. So I’ve tried to fill that gap.

“I hope that it will offer a realistic snapshot of what journalism is about, provide hints and tips of how to get a foot in the door and offer ways to find out more from training organisations and providers.

“The website is a central reference point for would-be journalists in an industry which has become more complex, with print, radio, TV and online platforms converging through digital developments. I just want to help people explore all the options available to them.

“The forums will allow anyone to ask questions about the career and for students and trainees to share their experiences to help those coming after them. I also hope to spark debate about the issues facing journalism today, not just about training.

“It is a time of great change and exciting opportunities in the media. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the need for news and the people who write and edit it. There is a big demand for journalists and the career remains a popular choice.

“There are many routes into the industry. I am hoping to improve the quality of information available online about journalism and the training opportunities available.”

The site includes an introduction to the industry from Devon-based training consultant David Scott.

Ed has worked in the regional press for more than 20 years, starting out as a trainee with the Western Morning News, Plymouth, covering Cornwall, Devon and Somerset, after completing a Newspaper Journalism Diploma at City University in London.

He has worked as a reporter on the Daily News in Birmingham, Camden Chronicle, The Orcadian in the Orkney Islands and the Clevedon Mercury.

He was a news editor at the Western Gazette at Yeovil and a reporter and news editor for the Bristol-based Western Daily Press.

He returned to Devon in 2001 and joined the newsdesk of the Express and Echo in Exeter, where he is now deputy chief sub-editor.