Regional newspapers are being given a helping hand to prepare to celebrate Local Newspaper Week, with the launch of an online press pack from the Newspaper Society.

This year's event will run from May 5 to May 11, and for the sixth year will mark the vital role regional papers play in communities across the UK.

The press pack, which is now available at www.newspapersoc.org.uk, provides editorial, advertising and sales and promotions departments with a host of ideas for features and competitions.

It also includes a number of press releases which can be used during Local Newspaper Week, with useful facts about the industry and quotes from the Queen and other well-known personalities such as Gary Lineker and Patrick Moore.

The event also incorporates the Prince's Trust Local Reporting Awards, which have this year been split into two categories, giving professionals and non-professionals the chance to win a prize.

This year the awards are being supported by Prince's Trust ambassador Cat Deeley, and the first prize in each section is an interview with the television presenter.

She said: "For young people who would like to work in the media, it is an opportunity to get some first hand work experience and a prestigious award, both of which could prove invaluable in finding that vital first job.

"I know only too well how difficult it is to launch a career in the media, and to develop it, so the support and recognition that these awards provide cannot be underestimated."

The awards recognise excellence in local reporting among people between the ages of 14 and 30, who write about the valuable work carried out by young people in their communities.

Details of how to enter can be found on the Newspaper Society's website.

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