News Reporter

Application Deadline: 26 June 2026

Department: Editorial

Location: Swindon

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an ambitious News Reporter to join our high-performing newsroom, covering one of the most dynamic patches in the region.

This is a fast-paced role where no two days are the same. You’ll be at the forefront of breaking news, court reporting, community stories and in-depth features, producing content that informs, engages and resonates with local audiences across Swindon and Wiltshire.

Working as part of a supportive and driven team, you will help deliver digital-first journalism across our websites and social platforms, playing a key role in ensuring we tell the stories that matter most to our communities.

This role is open to senior journalists looking for a fresh and bigger challenge as well as trainee reporters entering the industry for the first time.

To apply please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you are the right candidate for the role. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

Key Responsibilities

In this role you will:

• Report on breaking news, crime, courts, local politics and community issues
• Identify and develop exclusive stories, features and human-interest content
• Produce accurate, engaging and balanced journalism to tight deadlines
• Ensure all content is written and presented in a digital-first way, optimised for online audiences
• Build strong contacts across the patch, including emergency services, councils and community groups
• Use social media to source stories, engage readers and promote content
• Work closely with editors and colleagues to deliver impactful coverage
• Contribute ideas to content planning and help shape daily news agendas

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

We’re looking for a candidate who is:

• Passionate about journalism and committed to high editorial standards
• Digitally skilled, with a strong understanding of how audiences consume news online
• A confident writer with the ability to produce clear, engaging copy
• Highly organised, able to work quickly and accurately under pressure
• Proactive, curious and full of ideas for stories and content
• Comfortable using social media as a reporting and publishing tool
• A strong communicator, able to build and maintain professional relationships

You should ideally have:

• A journalism qualification (NCTJ or equivalent) or relevant experience
• Knowledge of media law, IPSO regulations and ethical reporting standards
• Experience working in a newsroom or similar environment (desirable but not essential)
• A Driver's Licence and your own car

Job Benefits

This is a fantastic opportunity to develop your career with one of the UK’s leading local media organisations.

• Be part of a high-performing, supportive newsroom with a strong track record
• Gain experience across a wide range of stories, from breaking news to in-depth features
• Develop your digital journalism skills, including SEO, social and audience engagement
• Access structured training, development and career progression opportunities
• Enjoy a competitive benefits package including pension, holiday and staff discounts