King Charles calls regional press ‘cornerstone of democracy’ as Melksham News attends Buckingham Palace

The Melksham News was amongst the attendees at Buckingham Palace recently at a reception held in recognition of the importance of regional media.

The newspaper’s deputy editor, Kate Drew, attended the event, hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla, to celebrate the role of local journalism in communities across the UK. She was selected to attend by the Independent Community News Network, which represents over 100 independent media outlets, including Melksham News and its sister titles.

Kate, who lives in Melksham, said, “It was an honour to be selected to attend. The reception took place in the same room where state banquets are held, and the King and Queen spent time circulating and meeting the guests. It was great to see the King acknowledge the important role regional media plays throughout the UK in democracy—vital work that strengthens communities and holds those in power to account.

“I had the opportunity to speak with the Duke of Gloucester, who was interested to hear about local news in Wiltshire. It was encouraging to have royal backing for the work local news does, and the event was filled with people enthusiastic about the importance of regional journalism.”

In attendance were members of local news media from across the UK, including culture secretary Lisa Nandy, as well as local news representatives from various networks. The focus of the event was to highlight the significance of regional journalism and its impact on communities.

In a statement released ahead of the reception on Wednesday 26th March, King Charles said, “I have long believed that regional media, in all its forms, has a unique and vital role to play in society, perhaps even more so in these uncertain times.

“As I said in a speech to mark the tercentenary of Britain’s first daily national newspaper, back in 2002, the press, alongside other long-standing institutions, is at the forefront of ‘defining, describing and celebrating the more profound values of our nation.’

“Two decades on, when too much focus is given to that which divides us, that role for your whole industry is more important than ever—and it starts from the ground up, at local level, in your hands.

“Your reporting, and the work of all those who support you, helps amplify and reaffirm the rights and responsibilities we all share. It shines a light in dark corners, exposing injustice and wrongdoing. Above all, it helps strengthen our communities, in times of joy and at moments of sorrow.

“You won’t always get it right. A free media is one that will and does make mistakes. But at its best, it is a cornerstone of our democracy.

“I know how commercial pressures and changing technologies have had a significant impact on your industry. But as the media landscape has changed, so too many of you have adapted and innovated, finding ways of sharing your journalism and engaging audiences in new and creative ways.

“It is in everyone’s interests that you should succeed. For without a thriving and financially robust regional media, we would all be the poorer.”

Pictured: Melksham News deputy editor Kate Drew outside Buckingham Palace for the royal reception