THE Camden New Journal was named the best free paper in Britain on Friday at the newspaper industry’s annual awards – and congratulations have flooded into our offices.
It is the second time the New Journal has won the prestigious award, organised by the UK Press Gazette, in four years. The paper has been nominated for the coveted accolade four times in the last six years.
London Mayor Ken Livingstone took time out from organising London’s successful Olympic bid to send us this message: “Well done CNJ – the award is no surprise as you serve your community well. In this age of local papers owned by big companies, it is refreshing to see a popular, independent paper that stands for honesty and justice. Camden life is richer for having such a well-regarded paper as the Camden New Journal.”
And Hampstead and Highgate MP Glenda Jackson added she was thrilled that her favourite Thursday read had got the recognition it deserved. She said: “Many congratulations to the CNJ which consistently provides such a sterling service to my constituents. It is no surprise it has won this award.”
Former Labour leader and Hampstead resident Michael Foot also found time to say well done. He said: “Nobody in Camden will be surprised to hear of this wonderful prize – it will win it year after year. The CNJ is showing up the competition – seeing off the other highly paid newspapers including the unmentionable Ham and High and the Daily Mail and their wretched associates.
“This is a rising group of journalists, not only the new recruits, but also the editors who are doing a wonderful job.” Councillor Jane Roberts, leader of Camden Council, was also quick to say well done. She said: “An active, industrious local press is good for local people and local democracy. This is a remarkable achievement.”
And our award has also been welcomed by others.
Gospel Oak school governor and former Number 10 aide Fiona Millar praised our ability to cover everything that happens on our patch – no matter how big or small. She said: “The CNJ does a brilliant job covering all the local events for young people. You make people feel like they matter. You have always done a great service for schools and young people, covering what they do and their sporting events. Congratulations. You deserve it.”
Writer Gillian Slovo, who lives in South End Green, said she loved poring through our arts pages. She said: “It’s fantastic to see an independent paper getting this award. You deserve the recognition and the prize. Congratulations.”
Broadcaster Joan Bakewell, from Primrose Hill, added she was impressed by the standard of writing. She said: “It’s such a good read. You are always fair and balanced. The writing, the pictures and the reviews are excellent. It is well done – you deserve it.”
Actor Roger Lloyd Pack, from Kentish Town, praised the pressure we put on people in power to fight for our readers’ interests. He said: “I rely on the paper for local news – for campaigning news about issues that involve disputes between the people and the powers that be. You are very good at reporting these things and letting the community know about it – you are always there when it matters, and even when it doesn’t! Congratulations.”