THE Islington Tribune was “highly commended” by judges at yesterday’s (Thursday’s) Regional Press Awards – known as the local paper industry’s Oscars.

We got a special mention for our campaigns and investigations as the judging panel assembled by the Society of Editors revealed its winners for work published in 2020.

The Tribune had walked away from the last awards with the prize for the best free newspaper in the entire UK.

This time, the gong went to our stablemate, the Camden New Journal, which helped deliver emergency food parcels throughout the Covid crisis.

But there was no shortage of praise for the Tribune – Islington’s best read newspaper – from the judges.

“Sterling service for the readers of Islington, this is a first-class publication and the lively letters page shows just what an engaged readership there is,” the panel said.

“The Islington Tribune is full of exclusive news stories, campaigning journalism and strident opinions.

“It doesn’t mince its words. It’s what a local newspaper should be.”

The usual gala ceremony could not be held due to concerns over Covid, with the announcements being made online.

Society of Editors executive director Dawn Alford said: “The work done by the journalists, photographers, designers and editors showcased in these awards is inspiring.

Eric Gordon

“In such a difficult period of time, their work has been essential in keeping the public informed, campaigning on issues, making us laugh and making us cry.”

The recognition for both the Tribune and the Camden New Journal was especially poignant because it relates to editions from Eric Gordon’s final year as editor.

The 89-year-old died in April this year after complications which followed a fall at home.

He had co-founded the CNJ in 1982 and remained its editor for 39 years. Following the popularity of the New Journal, the same team founded the Tribune to provide a similar news service here.

Unlike most local newspapers in the UK, the titles are independent from the large chains which control huge swathes of the regional press.

While the big companies are running operations in all corners of the country with an identikit method, the CNJ and Tribune remain resol­utely local, answering to its readers rather than shareholders or handsomely remunerated executives.

Richard Osley, who was appointed editor of the titles after Mr Gordon’s death, said: “We may not have the same resources as the big boys – but this recognition shows we can pack a powerful punch. We remain as determined as ever to give residents the campaigning voice they deserve.

“I’m proud of everybody who gets the Tribune out each week and make it, officially one of the best in the UK.

“And we are thankful for the warmth and loyalty we have felt from readers – and advertisers – as the Covid pandemic took hold.”