The News Media Association has reported an increase in the number of press cards it has issued so far this year.

The trade body for the regional and national press says it has given out 1,045 cards to journalists during 2021.

According to the NMA, this represents a “small rise” compared with the same period last year.

Journalists working for NMA members qualify for the cards, as well as those working for regional and national titles which do not hold membership of the organisation.

In a statement, the NMA said: “The News Media Association has issued 1045 cards to newsgatherers working in the news media industry so far this year.

“Press cards are formally recognised by all police forces in the UK, by the Ministry of Justice, the Royal Households and by other public bodies.

“The cost of a press card is £20 for those working for NMA members and £40 for those working for national and regional news media who are non-members.

“The NMA issues press cards as part of its media facilities service for member publishers which also includes the Royal Rota scheme enabling national and regional titles to access pooled pictures from high profile royal and political events across the UK.

“The number issued so far in 2021 represents a small rise on the same period last year.”

More information can be found here.