The Bristol Evening Post scooped the UK's media to publish the only official photograph of Tony Blair and his family at son Euan's graduation ceremony.

The exclusive was the result of Evening Post reporter Julie Harding's persistence, and was released by the family as a thank you to the paper for respecting Euan's privacy during his three years in Bristol.

Reporter Julie originally contacted the University of Bristol ahead of the ceremony to ask if the paper could cover the graduation, but was told it was a private occasion.

A request to 10 Downing Street brought the same response but, undeterred, Julie decided to write to Cherie Blair directly.

Julie said: "I met Cherie in May and wrote to ask if she would be willing to release a picture.

"I was shocked when I received a call from her.

"She said she was glad that the Evening Post hadn't hounded Euan in the three years he has been in Bristol and as a reward she would release the picture on the condition that we didn't give it to anyone else."

Julie said the local media had gathered for the event at the Grand Hall at the Wills Building in Queen's Road, but tight security meant they couldn't get near.

She said: "We already had a picture of Euan outside with his friends, but it was nice to get an official picture of him with his mum and dad.

"I didn't really expect a reply and was pleased that Cherie took the time to speak to me."