Union recognition for regional press journalists employed under a BBC-funded scheme is progressing, according to the NUJ.

HTFP reported a year ago that the National Union of Journalists was looking to set up chapels for local democracy reporters who work for regional titles under the scheme.

The union issued an update on the chapel for journalists employed by JPIMedia in its Informed magazine.

Neil McGrory and David Spereall will serve as joint fathers of the JPIMedia chapel.

Around 150 journalists are employed under the scheme in total.

A formal request for recognition has now been submitted to the union.

The NUJ’s national executive committee has recorded its thanks to Neil and David “for their collective efforts in spearheading this work”.