I’m Glen Barclay, a journalist with a passion for storytelling and a keen interest in exploring the world around me. Right now, I’m working as a News & Online Reporter for The Scottish Farmer, where I have the privilege of covering rural affairs and agricultural issues. I love finding fresh angles on stories and speaking with people from all walks of life. There’s something deeply rewarding about uncovering the human side of every story, and that’s what I strive to do in my work.
I’m originally from a family business in timber contracting, where I grew up surrounded by the industry and learned the value of hard work from my father and grandfather. There’s nothing I enjoy more than early mornings spent slinging timber and being out in the field. This connection to the land has also shaped my career—my work with The Scottish Farmer often feels like a natural extension of that background, allowing me to combine my love for rural life with my passion for journalism.
My journey into journalism started with a BA (Honours) in Journalism, and it was during my studies that my love for international reporting began to take shape. I had the opportunity to spend time abroad at the Danish School of Media and Journalism (DMJX) in Aarhus, Denmark, where I focused on international news. Through this, I traveled to Brussels to report on chemical regulations at the European Parliament, and later to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, to cover rising ethnic tensions. These experiences really opened my eyes to the power of journalism in shaping global conversations, and I knew I wanted to pursue a career that would take me across the world.
Before I joined The Scottish Farmer, I worked as a Media Assistant for the Central Coast Mariners, an A-League football team in Australia. This was an incredible experience that gave me a behind-the-scenes look at sports media and communications. It also reinforced my desire to work in an environment where I could combine my love for travel with my professional goals. As a sports fan and a journalist, it was a perfect fit.
In addition to my career, I’m heavily involved in my local community. I’m currently the Secretary of the Forfar and District Junior Agricultural Club and serve as District Vice-Chairman. I’m also on the National Committee for Communications & Marketing, where I contribute my skills and passion for rural affairs. These roles allow me to stay connected to the agricultural community and help support the next generation of young people involved in farming.
In my spare time, I’m a goalkeeper for my local amateur football team, and I was once a tennis prodigy. I had the privilege of being coached by Judy Murray a few times, which was a great experience and helped shape my competitive spirit. Sport has always been a big part of my life, and it continues to be a way for me to stay active and challenge myself.
Ultimately, my goal is to become an international correspondent, and I’m working towards that by keeping my focus on travel, people, and the stories that need to be told. I believe in the power of journalism to bring about change and shed light on important issues, whether they’re local or global. I’m excited about what the future holds and the stories yet to be discovered.
