A local democracy reporter has won a prestigious fellowship from a charity that helps to support young journalists.

Rhi Storer, who works for the Birmingham Mail under the BBC-funded scheme, has been named a fellow of the John Schofield Trust for 2023.

The Trust helps offers “world-class mentoring and training” to aspiring and early career journalists, with a particular focus on those with less privilege and fewer connections.

Rhi, pictured, has worked as an LDR since August 2021, having previously spent 11 months with The Guardian.

She told HTFP: “I am really honoured to be selected as a John Schofield Trust fellow for 2023.

“I am especially surprised as there are many young journalists on the scheme who have outstanding reputations in their respective beats.

“To be a fellow means a recognition of my hard work scrutinising the decisions of local authorities and holding power to account.

“It’s a tough job – not many people find local government thrilling – but it is wonderful to know that people do care about how effective councils deliver services and the conduct of their local councillors.

“I’m delighted and humbled to be in a network of talented journalists, and I can’t wait to see how my mentorship develops and grows over the next twelve months.”