AddThis SmartLayers

Six-strong district reporting team launches with ‘diversity’ pledge to readers

A news website has pledged “diversity, inclusion and fresh perspectives” after unveiling a new district reporting team.

Wales Online has announced the launch of a new six-strong team dedicated to covering the South Wales Valleys.

The journalists involved will focus on Rhondda, Pontypridd, the Cynon Valley, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, the Rhymney Valley, Blaenau Gwent and Bridgend.

The team includes senior reporters Lydia Stephens, Katie Gupwell and Lucy John, covering the Rhondda, Pontypridd and Caerphilly respectively.

From left: Amy Knight, Lewis Smith, Lucy John, Katie Gupwell, Corrie David and Lydia Stephens

From left: Amy Knight, Lewis Smith, Lucy John, Katie Gupwell, Corrie David and Lydia Stephens

They will be complemented by community reporter Lewis Smith, who covers Blaenau Gwent, and trainees Corrie David and Amy Knight.

In a piece announcing their launch, the team wrote: “With strong backgrounds in the regions themselves, this team of journalists will tell the stories that matter to the people who live there and highlight the issues that impact their lives.

“So what can you expect from us? Brilliant stories, the latest news, in-depth investigations, the best places to eat and drink and fascinating insights into parts of our history that may be long forgotten.

“And we’ll be on the scene at major breaking news stories before anyone else.

“Diversity, inclusion and fresh perspectives are at the heart of what we do. We’re committed to uncovering untold stories and want to hear about under-reported issues.

“So please meet the team, all either born and raised in these areas or with strong connections to them, and get in touch.”