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Society of Editors unveils new-look website

A screenshot of the new SoE websiteThe Society of Editors has relaunched its website with a greater focus on multimedia content and reader interaction.

The organisation’s new look site went live on Tuesday and also features a “strong use of imagery” along with an online calendar of industry events.

The site was designed by Cambridge-based marketing consultants Magstar Ltd under the leadership of SoE board member Alison Gow, digital innovations editor at Trinity Mirror.

SoE president Nick Turner said: “This is an investment in improved communication with our members and the public reflecting the brilliant, innovative work of the news media which we serve that has taken a firm grasp on the digital world for the benefit of readers, listeners and viewers.”


Echo trainee reporter Meghan Hindley at the appeal's launchA regional daily has launched its 16th annual Christmas Toy Appeal.

The Dorset Echo is hoping to match the record £4,700 it raised during last year’s campaign, which aims to give hundreds of needy children across its patch a toy to open on Christmas morning.

It wants 40 local businesses to pledge £100 each to the cause, while readers can also donate in the form of money or gifts.

Echo trainee reporter Meghan Hindley is pictured at the appeal’s launch.

Editor Diarmuid Macdonagh said: “Thanks to the generosity of our readers, we have been able to bring a little comfort to thousands of needy children over the last 15 years.

“Each year, we are overwhelmed by the number of donations we receive and I am sure this year will be no exception.”


nujlogoThe National Union of Journalists has reported a “dramatic” raise in membership at a group of newspapers in Northern Ireland.

The NUJ says membership among Alpha Newspapers staff has gone from an initial proportion of 29pc to 80pc in the past six weeks.

Alpha owns nine titles in Northern Ireland including the Coleraine Chronicle, The Ulster Gazette, the Antrim and Ballymena Guardian, the Newry Democrat, the County Down Outlook and the Tyrone Courier.

Nicola Coleman, NUJ Irish organiser, said: “Alpha is renowned for being one of the lowest paying media companies in Northern Ireland. In excess of 30pc of journalists employed by the company earn less than a living wage of £14,976 per annum, in many cases in spite of years of service.”

Alpha has yet to respond to HTFP’s request for a comment on the issue.


Nottingham businessA regional daily’s scholarship is set to fund a business student to the tune of almost £8,000.

The Nottingham Post’s Executive MBA scholarship will fund half the tuition fees of a £15,500 part-time executive master of business administration (EMBA) course.

The two-year Nottingham Business School programme aims to improve professionals’ management knowledge and leadership capabilities, enhancing their professional career opportunities.

The programme is being run in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University.

Post editor Mike Sassi, pictured left with Dr Phil Considine, said: “We are proud to be able to offer this opportunity, in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University.

“We value the relationships we have within Nottingham’s business community, and we know that by working in partnership with companies we can help to play a role in promoting Nottingham as a great place to do business.”


1XLA digital advertising platform founded by more than 20 regional newspaper publishers has appointed a new head of sales.

Stevie Stewart has joined 1XL from the Press Association, where she was previously digital partnerships manager.

She will be responsible for developing the commercial and creative proposition of 1XL, as well as being an advocate for both the brand and local news media.

1XL was founded last November by publishers including Newsquest, Johnston Press and Local World to enable ads to be sold across 800 local websites.

Prior to her PA role, Stevie held senior sales positions at both the Daily Telegraph and Glam Media where as Group Account Director she was responsible for both UK and International revenue generation across a portfolio of London’s top media agencies.

Said Stevie: “1XL is continuing to showcase the power of local media, allowing brands to reach audiences nationwide in relevant and effective ways. I look forward to helping the team lead the charge in local media inventory, as well as delivering unmatched results for our clients.”