A regional news title entirely staffed by older volunteers has been nominated for a royal honour.

Talking About My Generation, a Greater Manchester-based news platform, has been put forward for the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

The service, which was launched in 2018, is run by volunteer community reports aged 50 and over and aims to “challenge ageist stereotypes by sharing positive stories of life over 50 and news, views and nostalgia that represents the diverse lived experiences of older residents in the region”.

TAMG started out in print and expanded last year with the development of an online news platform, podcast and social media community.

A group of Talking About My Generation community reporters

Bob Alston, the title’s Tameside community reporter, website and magazine editor,  said: “I have volunteered since day one.

“Not knowing what I had to personally offer, it was quickly evident that over 50s in Greater Manchester needed a more prominent and forthright voice within each area, and all the volunteers bring something unique to the table.

“I continue to be a volunteer, motivated by the fact that it is obvious to all involved that we now have a wide and varied following that has spread further afield than just the Greater Manchester area.”

The project was the brainchild of PR and communications social enterprise Yellow Jigsaw.

The organisation’s media director Kirsty Day, a former Manchester Evening News journalist, said: “These community reporters have shown the value they can bring to the media landscape; and the appetite that exists for peer-led news that older residents can relate to.

“It is great to see brands get behind the news team and show their support for community reporting with a social mission – with the likes of TalkTalk and Age UK Salford sponsoring the news team’s effort.”

“Not only is Talking About My Generation a news platform but it also a support network – telling stories that resonate with the audience and provide connections with each other.

“During the pandemic, this news platform and support network have been more important than ever. They are a fantastic team who are fully deserving of this nomination.”

The Queen’s Award is the highest award given to volunteer groups across the UK and winners get a certificate signed by the Queen and a domed glass crystal.

Representatives from the group may also be invited to attend a royal garden to celebrate their achievements.