| News Associates graduate Steve Jones has been successful in the NCTJ's first-ever journalism awards.
Jones, who took a fast-track qualification in Manchester between March and July 2008, was the winner in the Sports Journalist category for a portfolio that included an interview with Chris Hoy, just a few days before he went on to win three golds at the Beijing Olympics.
The NCTJ Awards for Excellence in Journalism - www.nctjawards.com - are open to all NCTJ trainee reporters and graduates of accredited courses. A shortlist was drawn up by a panel of leading industry names from the UK national and regional press and Steve will receive his award at the Society of Editors conference in Bristol.
"We're delighted to be represented in the winners' circle at the NCTJ's first ever awards - an event which is sure to grow in stature and is a welcome addition," said Managing Editor, James Toney.
"Steve was a first-rate trainee and he put together an impressive portfolio, which was deservedly recognised by the judges."