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Editorial assistant marks 30 years in industry

An editorial assistant who has worked for a newspaper publisher for 30 years was presented with a gold watch to mark her long service.

Alison McWilliam, from the Aberdeen-based Press and Journal, was awarded the watch to recognise her time at Aberdeen Journals by managing director Alan Scott.

She initially joined Aberdeen Journals, which is now owned by DC Thomson and Co, in 1980 as a news telephonist, taking copy from reporters in the field.

Alison spent nine years in that role before moving to work on the Press and Journal as editorial assistant – the first point of contact on the paper’s busy newsdesk.

She said: “When I started out as editorial assistant, I was only going to stay for three months but 21 years later I’m still on the newsdesk. It’s gone by quickly.

“I’ve seen so many people come and go and a lot of changes. I’ve also made a lot of friends over the last 30 years.

“I’ve enjoyed it and I can honestly say there’s been very few days when I haven’t wanted to go to work. Every day is different.”

Mr Scott said: “Many congratulations to Alison. Thirty years is a tremendous achievement.

“There are not too many companies now which would have employees receiving a gold watch for 30 years’ service and Alison has been excellent all the time she’s been here.”

  • Alison McWilliam is presented with her gold watch.