A weekly newspaper editor has scooped a regional award to recognise staff who “go the extra mile” at work.

Alan Quick, editor of the Tindle Newspapers-owned Crediton Courier, was given the award by Recognition Express Ltd, a company which manufactures promotional products and branded clothing.

The scheme is designed to reward exceptional loyalty, hard work and commitment.

Alan was entered for the Recognition Awards 2009 by his general manager Sean Constable.

Sean said: “Alan always puts his job before his personal commitments. He rearranges holidays, etc to make sure there is someone to cover stories.

“He has been rewarded by the company and Devon Air Ambulance Trust for his pictures. He also works on behalf of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Dartmoor Folk Festival and human rights organisations. He is an excellent ambassador for the company and an example to others.”

Alan, now 47, wrote his first story for the Crediton Country Courier in 1977 as a work experience student when he was just 15.

It was the start of a 30-year career with the title. He was asked to take on the role of editorial manager in 2006.

He said: “I am really overwhelmed to have been nominated, and to have won. It is of even more value that I was nominated by a work colleague.

“It is a pleasure to serve the community in this way as I feel local newspapers play an important role.

“Journalists from local newspapers don’t just write about the community, they live, work and interact locally and foster a relationship of trust between the newspaper, its readers and advertisers.

“I strive to keep our coverage objective and balanced, without sensationalising issues. This can often mean going that extra mile to cover a story, to find out the truth or, for example to ensure that an individual’s voice is heard.”

David Pugh, from Recognition Express (left), presents Alan with his award
Pic: Nora Parminter, Crediton Country Courier