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Journalism prize for reporter Tristan

Greenock Telegraph reporter Tristan Stewart-Robertson has scooped a journalism award for a human interest story he wrote about a young epilepsy sufferer.

Tristan received Epilepsy Scotland’s Journalist of the Year Award, supported by Scottish Water, and received £500 and a trophy at a gala dinner at the Roxburghe Hotel in Edinburgh.

His campaigning feature highlighted the condition of epilepsy, the social stigma surrounding it and the lack of local services for children.

He was praised by judges for his ability to blend information and facts with clear writing.

Film maker Richard Jobson, who was on the judging panel, said: “The subject of epilepsy itself can make people want to turn the page.

“Tristan managed to deal with the stigma – which is a big deal – and he did it beautifully.”

Other judges included broadcaster Sheena McDonald, Scottish Water’s head of corporate affairs, Helen Lennox, and Scottish NUJ representative Paul Holleran.

Tristan, whose story appeared in the Inverclyde Extra, said: “Interviewing Nicola about her young son Max was an eye-opening experience and I still have a long learning curve to climb about epilepsy.

“How we treat the stigmatized and vulnerable in society is not only a significant matter of public interest, but also a consideration for how we do our jobs in Scottish journalism.

“Those with epilepsy have important stories to tell and I am honoured that my writing, Kris Cairns’ photograph and Jim Hunter’s layout have been recognised.”