The former editor of the Press Association has been honoured for services to UK journalism weeks after stepping down from the role

Jonathan Grun, pictured below, is now emeritus editor of the PA having been its editor from 2000 until the end of last year.

Last night he was presented with the Chairman’s Awards at the Society of Editors Press Awards for his long record of service to the industry.

Presenting the prize, SoE executive director and chairman of the judges Bob Satchwell said no-one was more deserving of it.

Said Bob: “The Chairman’s Award recognises the enormous contribution Jonathan Grun has made to UK journalism and the difference he has made without fuss from behind the scenes to the life of the nation.

“Jonathan is uniquely respected and valued in all parts of the media that are served by the Press Association for his exceptional professional and personal qualities.

“No-one is more deserving of this recognition for the huge part played in both defending media freedom and insistence upon high journalistic standards.”

Added Jonathan: “I feel personally honoured to receive the award but this is also recognition of the Press Association’s vital role at the heart of the media industry and it is an honour from the Society of Editors, which campaigns tirelessly for freedom of expression.”

Jonathan joined the news agency as a general news reporter in 1979 and became the Press Association’s Editor in 2000.

He is also a member of the committee for IPSO’s Editors’ Code of Practice and twice served as President of the Society of Editors.