Journalists who fancy quitting their ‘nine to five’ job and branching out on their own are being offered help and advice in the form of a new one-day course.

Run by Janet Murray, An Introduction To Freelance Journalism is a workshop which promises to cover everything anyone needs to kick-start a career in freelance journalism, including finding, placing and selling stories.

It also gives tips on dealing with editors, managing finances and marketing.

Participants are then allowed six free follow-up phone calls for support and guidance as they begin freelancing.

Former teacher Janet, who has worked as a freelance herself for five years, also runs an online discussion forum where journalists can share ideas and experiences.

She said she decided to set up the course after feedback from members of the forum.

She said: “I found there are a lot of people out there who are looking to get into freelance journalism.

“It’s often put across that unless you’ve done years of training you can’t get involved, but if you know the basics, what makes a good story and how to pitch it effectively, then it is possible to sell your work.”