Staffordshire journalism graduate wins award six months into job

A talented reporter, who landed his ‘ideal job’ within two weeks of graduating from a Journalism course at Staffordshire University, has been presented with a prestigious industry award.

Danny Milligan, 22, who is working at Newsquest Somerset, was lost for words when he was named as the recipient of the Leanne Gibbons Memorial Award 2012 for most promising trainee, despite only joining the Media Group in July 2011.

The award is presented each year in memory of Leanne Gibbons, who had been carving out an exciting career as a journalist at the Somerset County Gazette in Taunton where she worked on sister title, the Mid Devon Star.

She tragically died in 2005 after developing pancreatitis at the age of just 23.

Danny, who covers news for the Somerset County Gazette and both news and sport for the Bridgwater Mercury and Burnham and Highbridge Weekly News, was nominated by the editors and news editors.

He said: “I knew that there was an award as previous winners had mentioned it in the newsroom but I didn’t realise I could qualify, having only worked at the company for 6 months. It was a real honour and a complete shock.”

Newsquest Somerset Editor-in-Chief, Alex Cameron was full of praise for the young reporter saying that Danny had comfortably settled in to all aspects of life at the paper, despite not being from the area.

He said: “Danny’s enthusiasm and drive has shone through and he has shown a willingness to turn his hand to anything – from the most straightforward picture story to sensitive human interest stories.

“He has made a fantastic and exemplary start – long may it continue.”

Pete Leydon, Journalism Award Leader at Staffordshire University, also expressed his delight for the former student, adding: “He produced some first rate journalism during his degree, passed all his NCTJ qualifications on the course at the first attempt, and displayed a rare all-round ability in covering news, sport and specialist areas to a professional standard.

“This award does not come as a surprise to me, but it’s still really pleasing to see our top journalism graduates like Dan go on to excel in their field.”

Speaking about his training at Staffordshire University, Danny said: “Everything I learnt, from the NCTJ’s, how to approach an interview and advice from tutors will undoubtedly have helped me to apply for the job with confidence.

“I love my job and want to improve to be successful and build up a reputation – but it is always nice to be recognized for the work you do.”

Source: Suzanne Jordan, Staffslive.co.uk, Saturday 4th February 2012