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Satchwell and Rowling receive writers’ awards

The director of the Society of Editors has been presented with an international writers award alongside Harry Potter author JK Rowling.

Bob Satchwell, left, received the International Writers Award 2014 for his “selfless dedication to affairs of the media.”

The award, instituted by the International Commission of Writers, was presented by Mr. Justice Peter Tomka, President of the International Court of Justice, at a ceremony in London.

Judges said that Bob “has consistently displayed a high degree of professionalism and effectiveness in executing the multitude of administrative duties constantly confronting him as a leader of the media.”

Accepting the award, Bob said that it is only a free media that can properly serve the public because it is seen to be independent and holding all sides to account.

He added: “That is why those of you working in the law carry a heavy burden and those of us working in the media must share some of the responsibility for maintaining confidence in justice.”

“The rule of law and freedom of expression are essential elements of any democracy. Both the courts and the media must be free and independent to maintain and fight for those core principles.

“That is our role in any society that seeks to be considered civilised.”

JK Rowling and Chairman of Zee News Subhash Chandra also received the International Writers Award for 2014 for fantasy writing and news reporting respectively.

Rowling was selected for her contribution to children’s literature while Chandra was recognised for “the pivotal role played by him in improving the standards of television news.”

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  • June 23, 2014 at 3:47 pm
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    Well done Bob. A thoroughly deserved honour and recognition for all the hard work you have put in over the years.

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  • June 24, 2014 at 11:48 am
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    Many congratulations, Bob. Never thought I would hear your name in the same breath as JK Rowling!!

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