From Champion Newspapers

ONE of The Champion's reporters will be putting forward the case for the future of printed newspapers at an Edge Hill debate later this month.

David Simister, one of our West Lancashire reporters, will be joining three other members of the north west's media at the Ormskirk university on May 25 to discuss how technology and the economy are affecting the media and what the future might hold.

"Journalism is not only the profession I work in, but it also something that runs in my blood and so the future of the media, and particularly the longstanding British tradition of weekly and daily newspapers is something I take a great interest in. I've no doubt it's going to be an interesting debate, which I hope will get more people interested in journalism and why newspapers matter," he said.

"There's no doubt that a lot of newspapers have fallen victim to the difficult economic conditions of the last few years, so I'm glad that The Champion's not only managed to survive, but thrive and expand into new areas, and has embraced rather than feared the growth of digital media. If we nurture our newspapers rather than cutting them back, I think we'll continue to thrive into the future.”

Mr Simister will be joined by a number of local and regional journalists from print and digital media come together to give their own personal views and experiences as part of the topical presentation entitled “What is the Future of Journalism?”, organised by Marc Stanton, Edge Hill's senior lecturer in journalism.

He explained: "Although traditional forms of print media have suffered some major changes in recent years, seeing the unfortunate demise of some of the world's leading sources, the digital age has allowed new platforms to emerge for the dissemination of news and information, such as video, podcasts and the web. These platforms also provide experienced journalists with new opportunities to continue thriving in their careers and to showcase their work to a global audience.

"Rather than print journalism being dead, I believe that there is room for everything. As practitioners, we have to embrace the new opportunities without abandoning the best of the values and culture that have shaped journalism over many decades. We have four journalists attending Edge Hill for this event who will be able to give their own perspectives on its future. I hope that their views will stimulate debate and show how this very dynamic profession is constantly evolving, not dying."

The event is free to attend and is open to members of the public. It takes place in room M46 in the Main Building on the Ormskirk campus and starts at 1pm. Anyone who would like more information can contact Marc on 01695 584726 or email stantonm@edgehill.ac.uk.

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