Salaried Academic Tutor
I became a journalist in 1984 and worked around the country for regional newspapers, magazines and local radio. In this region, this included Sunderland Echo, Newcastle Journal, Shields Gazette and Hartlepool Mail.
The first half of my career was spent in reporting, news and feature writing and news and features service management; the second half in design and production for print and digital publication.
I've specialised in news, investigative, campaigning, political and education journalism.
As an investigative journalist, I've also done freelance work for national newspapers including The Guardian, The Times and The Sun.
I've been lucky enough to achieve regional and national industry recognition, including winning the Sony Award as head of news for Wear FM community radio station in Sunderland, a Queen Mother’s Award for Environmental Campaigning journalism in the early 90s, twice being shortlisted for the Press Gazette national Reporter Of The Year, and regional awards for news and investigative reporting as well as design.
Teaching and supervision
- Practical and applied journalism
- Design and production
I spent some years running my own PR and marketing service and, partly as a result, developed an active interest in photography, covering live music for local newspapers/magazines and even providing commercial wedding photography for a while.
I have a lifelong interest in music, having been a guitarist, singer and drummer in various groups since my (far-off!) teenage years.
I'm currently grappling with my first attempt at creative writing: a young adults’ fantasy novel.