Richard Bowyer

Richard Bowyer is an experienced journalist, editor, journalism educator and communications professional with more than four decades of experience in the regional media industry. He began his career in the regional press working at titles including the Peterborough Evening Telegraph, Wolverhampton Express & Star, Derby Telegraph and Lincolnshire Echo, where he became Deputy Editor. He later joined the Stoke Sentinel as Deputy Editor before becoming Editor in 2013. During his career he has combined editorial leadership with a strong interest in the changing face of journalism and the regional press. Richard subsequently moved into journalism education at the University of Derby, where he taught and developed journalism courses, including magazine and football journalism. He has also worked in corporate communications and content, bringing together his editorial, writing and commercial experience. His particular interests include regional journalism, storytelling, media law and ethics, and the continuing evolution of local news in an increasingly digital media environment. He has also researched and written about the challenges facing the regional press.

What are you looking for in winning entries? 

I'm looking for journalism that makes a difference, stories that inform, challenge, surprise or genuinely connect with the communities they serve. I'll be looking beyond simply how big a story was or how many clicks it generated. Strong journalism starts with a good idea, but the best entries demonstrate originality, strong reporting, compelling writing and real impact. I also want to see the journalist behind the story, the determination to uncover something, the skill to get people talking, the ability to explain complicated issues clearly and the editorial judgement to know why a story matters. I'm looking for journalism that demonstrates the continuing importance of a strong, trusted regional press.