The Southern Daily Echo has embarked on an unusual way to find a new trainee journalist - by asking readers to send in their own video news reports.

The Southampton-based title currently has a vacancy in its newsroom and will use the video test as part of the recruitment process.

Editor Ian Murray said the challenge to find the south's new video journalist was an interesting way to seek new talent in the community and reinforce that the Daily Echo was no longer just a newspaper.

He told HoldtheFrontPage: "Video is now such an important part of the newsroom that all trainess have to go through video training.

"The idea is to invite readers who are over the age of 18 and say 'why not have a go?'

"It is a job advert really - we are saying send in your CV and also send us a news video."

Newsroom hopefuls are being asked to put together a two to three-minute news story about their community or any local subject - and if good enough they will be offered a job and receive £500 in vouchers.

There is also a separate challenge for under-18s, and the winner will be given a 12-month freelance contract with the paper and £300 in vouchers.

Some of the best entries will also be broadcast on the Echo's website, www.dailyecho.co.uk

In addition to a good video report, the Echo is looking for applicants with news sense and media knowledge, a good command of the English language, initiative and a good understanding of local and national affairs.

Ian said: "We have made it plain that if we do not find anyone suitable from the challenge we won't apppoint anyone.

"They will still have to hit all the other requirements expected for a trainee post.

"But we are hoping to not only find a winner, but also find some local video correspondents."