A work experience journalist has a welcome addition to her cuttings folder after a story she wrote made headlines across the world.

Laurey Buckland told readers of the Mansfield Chad about plucky pensioner Jean Hirst who chased down a teenaged thief who stole her bag.

But the story caused such a stir that it took the 72-year-old to the studios of GMTV while Laurey’s story made it into the pages of the Daily Telegraph and news websites in America, Australia and Asia.

Laurey, who is looking for her journalism job after finishing a course at Sheffield College, chased up the tale after her mother had spoken to Jean.

She said: “I thought what a triumphant story it was, especially when there is so much doom and gloom around at moment, it’s nice to have a good news story.

“I wasn’t even sure the Chad would use it at first but it is on my CV now and hopefully it will help me get a job.

“I was a little taken back that it went to the nationals but I feel very proud of myself and happy for Jean who is so modest.

“This has given me more of a drive as it shows even when you’re doing work experience a story can go that far.”

Jean, who is former England Schools championship sprinter, told the Chad she had been flabbergasted by all the publicity.

She said: “It has been hectic ever since. I’ve gone global across America, Australia and Asia. I thought who could possibly interested in my story in Asia.

“I’ve been having my leg pulled about it – one of my relatives says she has written to Sebastian Coe and said I am available for the 2012 Olympics.

“I would like to see Laurey get some more recognition for this story because she did such a good job and the national papers did not mention her.

“She is a lovely girl and I think she has a very good career ahead of her.”