Richard Trevena, a sports sub-editor at Medway Today, has become the first person to receive a Kent Messenger diploma in sub-editing after completing a two-year course with the newspaper group.

Richard was among 269 applicants for six places on the specialist course when the Kent Messenger advertised for trainee sub-editors with no previous experience in journalism in June 2000.

At the time, the industry was experiencing a national shortage of sub-editors.

Richard, (28), attended an initial six-week training course before moving taking part in a series of six-month placements on the production desks of the group's newspapers.

He was also required to gain NCTJ preliminary qualifications in law and public affairs, and put together a portfolio of evidence to prove competence in all the skills required of a sub-editor.

Richard received his KM diploma from the company's chief executive, David Lewis, at a special reception.

Richard said: "The course was excellent, and provided comprehensive knowledge and experience.

"There were times when the going got tough but the support and guidance from the training department was invaluable and I don't think I could have been better trained."

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