Paul scores as top sports man
Thomson’s EK News work earns accolade
The East Kilbride News scooped a prestigious prize at Media Scotland’s third annual Regional Editorial Awards, as Paul Thomson won sports writer of the year.
Our 30-year-old sports editor, from Gardenhall, received his accolade at Media Scotland’s base at Central Quay, Glasgow, during last Friday’s ceremony.
Scotland’s first-ever three-weight world boxing champion Ricky Burns was guest of honour and handed out the trophies.
The Coatbridge ring star told how the local press have covered his career right from his days as an amateur with the town’s Barn Boxing Club. And he revealed his mum keeps every press cutting from our sister title, the Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser.
It has been a fantastic year for Paul who has reported on a number of top stories and set the national agenda.
He covered East Kilbride’s amazing run in the Scottish Cup which included a glamour tie with Celtic and he provided first-class coverage as Kilby beat Ajax’s world record of consecutive victories.
Paul also produced an exclusive interview with Pam Clark who was axed from Team GB’s Rio Olympics squad – despite being British trampoline champion. And there was a special feature on EK Athletics Club member Lennie Waite who competed in the steeplechase in Rio.
And being on holiday was not enough to stop Paul getting the laptop out: he was in Spain when he revealed that EKFC were in signing talks with former Rangers star Nacho Novo.
He also led the News’s “Field of Dreams” campaign which called for South Lanarkshire Council to back plans for a community football stadium in East Kilbride.
Former Duncanrig Secondary pupil Paul said: “I’m really proud to win this award and it means a great deal to be recognised by my peers.
“There have been some incredible stories across all sports in East Kilbride this year and I feel very privileged to have covered so many memorable moments in my home town. “I’m glad I could do them justice. “We have a fantastic team at the East Kilbride News and I would not have won this award without their support and encouragement.”
East Kilbride News editor Colin Paterson said: “I’m delighted for Paul and I congratulate him on his award which is thoroughly deserved.
“He is a valuable member of the News team and a pleasure to work alongside.
“He has put East Kilbride on the sporting map with his comprehensive coverage of the area’s teams and personalities and is already looking forward to a successful 2017.”
Meanwhile, John Murdoch – who is Regional Editor of Media Scotland’s Lanarkshire and Lothian titles, including the East Kilbride News – was honoured with a lifetime achievement award after decades of dedicated service.
It means a great deal to be recognised by my peers