Impartial Reporter looks to the future after picking up another news industry honour
The editor of the newspaper named UK Weekly Newspaper of the Year at the Newspaper Awards says he hope the win is a sign his belief that readers will follow if you get the journalism right is being borne out.
The Impartial Reporter in Northern Ireland, beat the highly commended Cambridge Independent and the commended Isle of Wight County Press, New Milton Advertiser, Salisbury Journal and Oxford Times, to take the prize.
Judges said: “For a second year running, the Impartial Reporter takes the top spot. Judges were full of praise for its brilliant investigations, in-depth reporting and unique front page designs that make it stand out.”
Editor Rodney Edwards said: “To be recognised for a second year in a row feels very special. Our journalism, particularly our investigative work, as well as our design and photography, continues to make an impact.
“The results speak for themselves. We remain the best-selling weekly newspaper in Northern Ireland, according to ABC (Audit Bureau Of Circulation, and our latest internal figures, received just yesterday, show a recent paper had an increase of more than nine per cent in sales compared to this time last year.
“In the past year, we’ve continued to grow and evolve. We successfully launched Farmer’s Voice, a dedicated section reflecting the importance of agriculture in our community.
“And just last month, we launched a brand-new edition in South Tyrone — a place ripe for news and commercial opportunities, where there is a real appetite for quality journalism. The response has been incredible, with particularly strong sales in the first month proving that people still value and actively seek out a physical newspaper.
“Journalism isn’t always easy — it can be frustrating at times — but I’ve always believed that if we get the journalism right, the readers will follow. We are not perfect; we make mistakes, and we must constantly improve and adapt. But as we approach our 200th anniversary next month, I am incredibly proud — not only of our current team but also of all those who have played a part in this newspaper’s legacy.
“As part of our anniversary celebrations, we’ll be looking back to look ahead — with an exhibition, a gala event, a special broadsheet supplement, and a commemorative book.
“But while we honour our past, our focus remains firmly on the future — on ensuring that The Impartial Reporter, which means so much to the most westerly constituency in the United Kingdom, continues to grow, evolve, and serve its readers for generations to come.”
