What was your first job as a journalist?
Trainee Reporter - GrimsbyLive
Have you ever used a typewriter?
My nan had one when I was younger, I used to sit on her knee and bash the keys. Does that count?
How is social media changing news?
Social media drives the agenda and is the shop window at the same time. It will be the news soon, that isn't bad, it is just new.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Jonathan Pie embodies the pure and unbridled rage I experience every day watching bulletins
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To represent people and to strive for the truth. For me it is all about giving people the news that they need as well as the news they want.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I use hashtags but I can't remember any that are worthy of repeating here
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
N/A
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
Pen and shorthand notebook, Adobe Photoshop + Premier Pro, Otter if I'm feeling lazy.
What's your favorite social network?
Twitter (also my least favourite)
Who do you wish followed you?
Dan Walker - Fast becoming my idol
Why did you become a journalist?
I love words as much as I love people and the stories they have to tell. Everyone has a tale to tell and not everyone gets the chance.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
I didn't, I went to an underfunded state school in an ex pit town. We didn't have a school paper, it's grim up North.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Proud to have made a front page in Sheffield while representing a genuine local concern.
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Say yes to everything (within reason)
When's the best time to pitch you?
Early morning, early in the week.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
N/A
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
N/A
What's your favorite drink?
Long Island Iced Tea
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
The Peak District or any other place of natural beauty
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
The Athletic
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Lack of culture/not much to do. Just wrong, best pubs in the UK and the best countryside on your door step.
