One of the Isle of Man’s best known journalists will give advice to aspiring young reporters at a workshop in the Family Library.
Paul Speller will host the Press Gang event, for seven to 11-year-olds, on Saturday, June 22.
Budding journalists will be able to learn the rules of reporting, have a go at writing a news article and even hear some tales about the funnier side of life in a newsroom from Paul, who has been involved in the media in the Isle of Man for more than 20 years.
Father of two Paul is a former news editor and acting editor at Isle of Man Newspapers and is now a freelance journalist, working for both local and UK national publications.
He is well known for his hard hitting and humourous columns on everything from politics to family life and, during his career, has put every chief minister on the spot, met soap stars and football legends and interviewed celebrities ranging from Samantha Barks to Doctor Who.
Paul said: ‘I first knew I wanted to be a journalist when I was seven, so I imagine there are others out there of similar age who might appreciate the chance to learn a bit more about the job.
‘We’ll take a look at the basic writing skills for a reporter – skills that can be used for writing in any form – as well as investigating what makes a good story and we’ll have a go at making our own headlines.
‘It will be informal and fun – and the skills we learn will be just as handy for writing homework as working on a newspaper.’
The aspiring reporters will also be able to turn the tables on Paul and get him to answer their questions, instead of Paul being the one doing the asking, as he is used to!
Librarian in charge at the Family Library, Mary Cousins, said: ‘We are delighted to have secured Paul’s expertise for this workshop, which is one of many events we have lined up for a packed summer of activities, including our summer reading scheme – details of which will be revealed soon.’
The workshop takes place in the Family Library, Westmoreland Road, Douglas, from 1.30pm to 3pm on Saturday, June 22. Tickets are ?5. To book a place, contact the Family Library on 640650.
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