The number of press cards issued by the Newspaper Society shot up by nearly a third this year, according to end-of year figures.

In 2006, the society issued around 1,300 press cards to regional press staff, journalists and freelancers around the UK.

But that shot up to more than 1,800 for 2007, making it one of the most prolific 12-month periods on record.

It is thought an increased number of newsworthy events, such as football matches played by UK teams in European competitions, has contributed to the rise.

UK Press Card Authority press cards are issued by the Newspaper Society which acts as a one of several gatekeepers for the scheme.

The cards, issued only to working journalists and photographers, identify the bearer as a newsgatherer, and are formally recognised by UK police and other public bodies.

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