The 2008 Society of Editors conference in Bristol was dominated by debate over the future of the newspaper industry as it faces the twin challenges of digital convergence and the economic downturn.

Here’s our at-a-glance guide to the stories that made the news at the year’s biggest and most prestigious media gathering.

Stop milking papers dry says new editors’ chief
Pickover sets out stall in closing conference speech

Time for BBC to draw line in the sand says Bailey
Video debate dominates discussion on conference final day

Conference tests students’ real-time reporting skills
Cardiff foursome give their verdicts on industry gathering

Fire the columnists, not the reporters – Marr
Former political editor in emotional plea to editors

The future is local says ex-ITV boss
Internet TV pioneer sets out alternative vision for industry

Trainee journalists lack core skills says survey
Major training bodies to tackle need for multimedia skills

Brown is “good friend to press freedom”
Freedom of information now “part of fabric of public life”

Subsidise regional press says Guardian editor
Local papers should get share of BBC millions argues Rusbridger

Newsroom revolution taking place at daily newspaper
Nottingham Evening Post aiming to be media hub

Young journalists honoured in new awards scheme
NCTJ reveals the best new talent in inaugural Excellence in Journalism Awards

Relax merger laws to help local press survive – Dacre
Mail editor pulls no punches in keynote conference address

Union issues challenge to editors to defend quality
Dear says SoE should be “honest” about impact of cuts