NOAH WRITER/BROADCASTER OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCED
The National Office of Animal Health has announced the names of the winner and runner-up for the British Guild of Agricultural Journalists NOAH Writer/Broadcaster of the Year 2011 award.
First prize in the NOAH-sponsored award went to freelance journalist Olivia Cooper, whose article on TB prevention in Farmers Weekly was accompanied by a video on Farmers Weekly Interactive website.
The judges singled out Olivia’s work for its relevance and clarity, and for the important information it was passing on to readers.
Olivia said: “I was delighted to discover that I had won the award. TB is a devastating disease, and I wanted to provide some practical tips for farmers seeking to protect their herds, while they waited for the outcome of the Government’s consultation on the culling of TB-infected badgers.”
Runner-up was Joanne Pugh, former Livestock Editor on the Farmers Guardian and now Assistant Director of the National Beef Association, for her article on improving calf management.
“I’m absolutely delighted to take home an award and I think it is really important that the hard work of journalists and others is recognised in this way,” said Joanne.
The judges described her work as energetic and well-written, “providing valuable information for anybody think about either starting a calf rearing enterprise or looking to improve a current one. Joanne has captured the positive thinking of the farmers”.
The awards, which were presented at the NOAH annual dinner held last night at One Whitehall, in London, are given to a writer or broadcaster who submits a news story, or feature, which best highlights critical aspects of animal health, welfare and management, or examines topical and relevant issues on any aspect of farm animal care. The winner received a cheque for £750, and the runner up a cheque for £250.
NOAH Chief Executive Phil Sketchley, who was one of the panel of three judges for the award, said he was greatly impressed by the high standard of entries.
“This award demonstrates that there is a great pool of talent and professionalism out there in the world of agricultural journalism. These writers are providing valuable information for farmers and those involved in the rural industries, and making a significant contribution to animal health and welfare. We are grateful to all those who took part,” he said.
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For more information contact Donal Murphy, NOAH, 3 Crossfield Chambers, Gladbeck Way, Enfield, Middlesex, EN2 7HF. Tel: 020 8367 3131. Email: d.murphy@noah.co.uk
or Henry Creagh. Tel: 01394 610022. Email: henry.creagh@kendallscom.co.uk
Notes to Editors
The National Office of Animal Health represents the UK animal medicines industry. Its aim is to promote the benefits of safe, effective, quality medicines for the health and welfare of all animals.
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