Entries are open for one of the UK’s biggest journalism awards with the prize pot increased to £8,000 this year.

The Private Eye Paul Foot Award 2024 for Investigative and Campaigning Journalism will be handed out at an awards ceremony on 11th June.

Organisers say submissions from regional and smaller, independent news outlets are encouraged along with national publications.

Along with the £8,000 first prize – up from £5,000 last year – runners up will receive £1,500 per entry.

Private Eye editor Ian Hislop said: “This is a shocking 60pc increase for the prize winner. And a 50pc rise for the runners up.

“It is irresponsible and inflationary and might give journalists the idea that their work was in some way valued. In the words of the Prime Minister “Stop the Boost”! (surely “boats” ED).”

All submissions must be made online to [email protected] and the deadline for entries is Tuesday 26th March at 1pm.

The entry form and covering letter must be attached to the submission email and can be downloaded here.

Set up in memory of Eye journalist Paul Foot, who died in 2004, the award aims to honour journalists working in the fields of investigative and campaigning journalism today.

Last year’s award was won by David Conn, The Guardian, for his revelations about how Conservative peer Michelle Mone and her family received millions from PPE contracts.