The EDF Energy South West Media Awards 2010 officially open for entries today.

Journalists and broadcasters from across the region, including writers, photographers, radio and television staff, can download the application form today and begin collating their cuttings and reports.

The application form, complete with all entry criteria, can be
downloaded now here.

Individual award winners will receive a £100 cheque, as well as a certificate and trophy, and all those shortlisted, along with their guests, will be invited to a celebration presentation event, courtesy of award sponsors EDF Energy.

The awards, run in association with HoldtheFrontPage, are now in their sixth year in the region and honour the best in journalism across Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Bristol, Bath, Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.

There are 20 categories to choose from, covering daily and weekly newspapers, magazines and broadcasting.

Only material published between 2 February 2009 and 22 February 2010 will be eligible for the awards.

The individual categories are:

Print Journalist of the Year (Daily)
Print Journalist of the Year (Weekly)
Radio Journalist of the Year
Television Journalist of the Year
Newcomer of the Year
Feature Writer of the Year
Designer of the Year
News Photographer of the Year
Sports Journalist of the Year
Business Journalist of the Year
Environmental Journalist of the Year
Columnist of the Year

Categories for newspapers and broadcasting companies comprise:

Daily Newspaper of the Year
Weekly Newspaper of the Year (Paid-for)
Weekly Newspaper of the Year (Free)
Front Page of the Year
Radio News/Current Affairs Programme of the Year
Television News/Current Affairs Programme of the Year
Website of the Year
Community Campaign of the Year

The deadline for entries is 5pm, Friday 26 March 2010.

All entries should be sent to:

Paul Linford
HoldtheFrontPage
Northcliffe House
Meadow Road
Derby
DE1 2BH