Charles Thomson

The impact of Charles Thomson’s dogged reporting can be seen in a variety of different, and equally dramatic, ways. In the case of Jason Moore’s murder conviction – where, as the reporter put it, “even his alleged victim’s family believe he is innocent”, Thomson presented evidence that is being used to challenge the outcome of the case. The stories sparked protests outside Downing Street and the High Court and were followed up by the Mirror, Guardian, Daily Mail, BBC and Private Eye.

Meanwhile, judges noted that Thomson “showed the value of trustworthy local reporting” in his work exposing an historic abuser. Since publishing his articles, dozens more victims have approached the Islington Survivors Network.

Following an account of appalling conditions at a block of flats, Thomson’s work forced Hackney Council to commit to major improvements after he shared horrifying pictures of residents surrounded by thick mould. The reporting created a ripple effect as more people came forward to share their experiences, revealing a pattern: Hackney had knowingly placed lung patients and immunocompromised residents in a building it knew could make them sick.