Journalism.co.uk reports that London court news agency Strand News is appealing to its users to support it during these tough economic times.The income of the agency, which employs seven reporters, is currently not covering its costs, editor James Brewster told Journalism.co.uk.
But with support and small donations from users of the service, the vital role the agency plays in covering the UK's courts can continue, he added.
The agency has asked publications to: use the service wherever possible; process invoices for copy as quickly as possible; and settle any outstanding invoices before the end of June.
"All we need in order to survive this is just a little bit of help. We're not doing too badly," said Brewster.
Strand News covers the The Royal Courts of Justice, The Court of Appeal (Civil and Criminal Divisions), High Court (Queen's Bench, Chancery and Family Divisions) and the Administrative Court, in particular to the regional press.
Many independent news agencies must be feeling the pinch as cash strapped newspapers cut back and reduce fees.
I would love to support Strand News but I find their approach very opportunistic.
ReplyDeleteThey send their copy to any publication in a town which is mentioned in their stories rather than those who would actually publish the story.
Plus I find their telephone manner gruff.
I worked with Strand News on a job once. I found them really nice, professional people and this is a shock and a tragedy. Courts should be covered properly otherwise criminals do not suffer the public shame of being caught and the public don't learn of scams that might affect them later.
ReplyDelete