Western Daily Press journalist Richard Edwards has been named British Trainee of the Year by Newstec, the technology wing of the newspaper and publishing industry.

Richard, (23), joined the paper two years ago, and, as a member of the Regional Press Corps, recently covered the war in Iraq.

He was chosen by judges ahead of candidates from across the industry, who paid tribute to his skills and achievement in being chosen to cover the war despite his limited experience.

Richard said: "I am delighted to win, it's a real honour.

"I hope this will go some way to repay the faith shown in me by the editor and his staff since I joined the Western Daily Press.

"I was very grateful to have the opportunity of becoming a journalist with the WDP."

Editor Terry Manners said: "Richard Edwards is without doubt one of the best up and coming young reporters I have ever seen either in the regions or in Fleet Street.

"His courage and quality of his copy during the Gulf War was second to none. I am very proud of him and I hope I can keep hold of him."

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