#pulmansweekly

[theweeklynews]

Facebook is preferred social network for finding local news, study finds

Report by David Sharman for HTFP.co.uk

Facebook is the most used social media platform as a source of local news, a new study has revealed.

A report by broadcast watchdog Ofcom into news consumption in the UK has found that almost three out of five people, 59pc, use Facebook as a source for local news.

This is almost double the number who use Twitter, 30pc, for local news, with Instagram at 29pc being the next most used.

Snapchat came next with 22 pc and TikTok came last, with just 21pc of people using it as a source of local news.

The report’s findings come despite Reach plc, the UK’s largest regional publisher, citing recent changes to Facebook’s algorithms for a decline in both digital revenue and overall page views across its titles online.

A specific study of 16 to 24-year-olds for the report also found that age group to be less interested in local and regional news than other demographics.

Just 34pc agreed that “knowing what’s going on in my region” was a reason they follow the news, compared with 47pc overall, while for “knowing what’s going on in my local area” the figure was 36pc, compared with 49pc overall.

The study appears at odds with a trading update published in May in which Reach blamed “recent changes to the way Facebook presents news content,” for a “page view slowdown” across the group.

However the findings have sparked Duncan Williams, who runs West Country-based news aggregator Pulman’s Weekly News, to “adapt their strategies” in order to meet the needs of their readers.

Duncan, pictured, said: “This research signifies a paradigm shift in the way younger generations consume news, with social media platforms becoming the go-to choice for staying informed about current events and trending topics.

“Traditional media outlets face the challenge of adapting their strategies to meet the evolving preferences of this tech-savvy demographic.

“As social media continues to shape the news landscape, it remains crucial for news organisations to leverage these platforms to effectively reach and engage with the younger audience.”

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HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED OPENING UP A FARM SHOP? 🧺🥚 🍅 🍞 🍖 🍾 Farm shops have become increasingly popular in recent years, as consumers become more interested in buying fresh, organic, locally produced food. For some West Country farmers, a farm shop could be a great way to sell their products directly to consumers, while also supporting the local economy. In this article, Pulman's Weekly News explores how our farmers could launch their own farm shop and make it a success. Step 1: Identify Your Products and Market The first step in launching a successful farm shop is to identify the products you want to sell and the market you want to target. You may already have a good idea of what products you want to sell, but it's worth doing some market research to ensure that there is demand for your products in your local area. In addition to the products you grow or raise on your farm, you may also want to consider selling other locally produced goods, such as cheese, bread, or honey. This can help you to offer a wider range of products and attract more customers. Step 2: Choose a Location The next step is to choose a location for your farm shop. Ideally, you want a location that is easily accessible for customers and has plenty of parking. You may also want to consider a location that is visible from the road, as this can help to attract passing trade. If you have an existing farm building that you can convert into a shop, this can be a good option. Alternatively, you may want to consider seeking planning permission and building a new shop on your farm or renting a space in a nearby town or village. Step 3: Develop a Business Plan Before you launch your farm shop, it's important to develop a business plan. This should include details on your products, your target market, your pricing strategy, and your marketing plan. We are very fortunate in East Devon, South Somerset and West Dorset to have a ready supply of visitors during the holiday seasons. These tourists can make very good customers. ( Read more @PulmansWeekly ) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp_ZJhvIQ77/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[theweeklynews]

How regional newsrooms can use AI to protect the ‘lifeblood of local journalism’

Regional journalism experts appear optimistic generative AI can help their snowed-under newsrooms.

By João Santos for Press Gazette 

A WAN-IFRA survey has found that half of newsrooms are already deploying generative AI in some form or another.

Large language models quickly garnered the attention of Reach, Buzzfeed, Conde Nast and other publishers across the globe over the past six months for its potential to streamline editorial processes.

In particular the free-to-access ChatGPT has fast shown its potential to reinvent the way content is produced and journalism is done. But in local news outlets hard-pressed for time and staff, is the adoption of AI likely to be an opportunity or a threat?

AI vs the humans in local journalism

A number of UK regional news publishers have already realised that AI-generated news stories could free up journalists to concentrate on more meaningful reporting.

Duncan Williams, the managing director and proprietor of Pulman’s Weekly News in south east Devon, said: “AI has got huge advantages to help journalists, particularly in the regional sector, but it’s not yet at a level where it’s going to be able to write nitty-gritty stories.”

Rather, he said he believes the more in-depth stories produced by human journalists will carry increased significance. He wrote an op-ed in his newspaper last month emphasising the importance of human bylines for trust.

“As an editor, I would not dream of publishing a story by someone I did know the name of or who was not a trusted and credible human source,” he said. “Bylines not only protect my readers, but they also hold journalists accountable for their work.”

Dr Joy Jenkins, an assistant professor of Journalism at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, has worked extensively on how new technologies can be sustainably introduced into local industries.

She said: “AI can be used on more basic types of reporting in order to free up journalists to do the more investigative, in-depth types of stories they’d like to do but don’t always have the time and resources to produce.”

Eliz Mizon, a media writer and communications lead at Bristol Cable, believes AI could help local journalists carry out important “institutional accountability and community cohesion” roles, potentially reversing a trend that has seen around 300 local newspaper title closures since 2005 and left others hanging by a thread.

Will AI help or hurt regional journalist numbers?

A recurring worry that crops up in discussions of AI and news is whether the technology will end up replacing journalists, particularly in light of the economic headwinds that have encouraged many publishers to lay off staff in the past year.

Jody Doherty-Cove, Newsquest‘s special projects editor, is currently at the forefront of developing, coding and implementing AI tools for over 180 newsrooms across the UK, having just helped the Gannett-owned publisher establish its first AI reporter positions.

He explained: “A common misconception in the public discourse is the notion that AI, like some malevolent force, is poised to supplant human journalists in a ruthless bid to cut costs.

“Local journalism is a craft that requires investigation, relationship building, and nuanced understanding – elements that no machine, no matter how sophisticated, can truly replicate.”

Dr Jenkins agreed, explaining that AI should be seen as a “really affordable and helpful” tool which, if used properly, can be an “extremely effective way for local journalism to maximise its resources”.

Pulman’s owner Williams added: “It would streamline both the numbers of staff required to run our titles in an economic fashion and also the actual revenue streams that are the lifeblood of local journalism.”

This is the approach that Kallum Gethins, managing director at Dorset News and editor at View From Weymouth, has taken when incorporating AI into the running of both publications.

“If we find a story, we gather the facts, make a short sentence and then bring that into the AI software which produces a three to four-paragraph article, we proofread it and publish it,” he said. “The whole process takes about ten minutes.”

Much like the advent of social media and citizen journalism, AI could therefore lower the barrier of entry into the industry, making quality and consistency more affordable.

Gethins said: “I think that all organisations should implement AI because it could help their business massively, especially if the organisation is brand new and can’t afford journalists. For instance, we probably won’t be using AI-originated content in the long term and will look for potential journalists to join our franchise.”

The challenges ahead for AI in local journalism

As automation seeps into the media industry, the utility of AI in local journalism could be as far-reaching as the industry demands.

As well as editorial tasks, Dorset News’ Gethins has begun using different AI software engines for administrative work, for example producing email templates suited to potential investors and creating budget plans.

Automation could magnify the results of advertising campaigns and help integrate local papers more fully into social media, something which, Dr Jenkins explained, has been a historical struggle for many publications.

However there are considerable challenges to overcome before AI can be fully integrated into journalism in a way that is both ethical and practical.

Doherty-Cove said: “We must ensure that AI-generated content does not escape the watchful eyes of human editors who, with human oversight and rigorous fact-checking, can ensure AI-generated content meets their exacting requirements.”

Chatbots such as ChatGPT rely on what the user feeds into it, as the data on which they were trained is in some cases out-of-date. This means the fundamental newsgathering framework which leads to a fully-fledged story is, for the moment, outside the purview of generative AI programmes.

But as Dr David Ryfe, a professor and director at the School of Journalism and Media at the University of Texas at Austin, put it: “Clay Shirky wrote over a decade ago that it is much faster to lose something than to build something else to stand in its place. That is what is happening to local journalism.”

[weeklyview]

WEEKLY WELLBEING: BE KIND... 😊 In a world that can often feel harsh and unforgiving, it is important to remember the power of kindness. Being kind can have a profound impact not only on those around us, but on our own lives as well. Here are just a few reasons why it is always worth striving to be kind. ( Read more @PulmansWeekly ) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp9djjaIZ14/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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YOUNGER CHARD PLAYERS GIVE IT GREAT GUNS BUT TAUNTON CIVIL SERVICE TRIUMPH IN MEN'S HOCKEY CLASH - 🏑 Chard B - 1 Taunton Civil Service A - 7 After last week being only able to muster a bare eleven players for the fixture at Minehead, captain Trevor Goss found himself with an embarrassment of riches, a squad of fifteen, enabling him to observe in a non-playing capacity throughout. This was the classic game of two halves. Chard had hoped to frustrate free scoring, top of the table Civil Service with defensive fortitude and to take advantage of that frustration, the longer the game remained scoreless. A couple of early shots from distance were well saved by Luke Bradshaw, the hero of the fixture between the sides in Taunton earlier this year. However, a change of tactics by Civil Service to get the ball deeper into the D for closer range efforts swiftly paid dividends and, enjoying the rub of the green with rebounds and half clearances, they raced to a five goal lead with scarcely 25 minutes played. Chard looked down and out but, with Civil Service feeling comfortably on target for another easy win, they relaxed and allowed the home side to start playing some cohesive hockey as half time approached. Having got a toehold in the game, Chard continued to build momentum from the start of the second half. Increasing confidence in possession and slick passing, combined with good movement off the ball saw a complete transformation as the visitors were suddenly chasing shadows and having to resort to some heavy challenges around their D. From one of a number of promising moves, Tom Sainsbury was put through and rounded the keeper only to be brought down. A penalty flick might have been awarded but Civil Service escaped with a penalty corner. Chard did deservedly get on the score sheet from another of their penalty corners, Rich Jones injecting, Gary Wheaton stopping and returning the ball to Jones to score from an angle with defence and keeper wrongfooted. ( Read full report @PulmansWeekly ) #hockey #localsportmatters (at Taunton CS Hockey Club) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp8FmWwsJtJ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[weeklyview]

WHY I AM WARY OF BECOMING TOO WOKE - 😳 As a former tabloid journalist and now editor of Pulman's Weekly News, I have always been mindful of the impact my words and actions might have on others. However, in today's "woke" culture, it sometimes feels like the goalposts are constantly shifting, and it can be hard to know what is considered acceptable. One potential risk is the phenomenon of "cancel culture," where individuals are publicly shamed and ostracised for expressing views or engaging in behaviours deemed offensive or harmful by certain groups. While I believe it's important to call out genuine instances of harm or discrimination, cancel culture can also be a blunt instrument that shuts down debate and stifles free expression. So how might I find myself on the wrong side of woke culture? It could be as simple as expressing a controversial opinion on social media, or using humour or irony that is misinterpreted by some as offensive. It could be participating in an event or organisation that others deem problematic, or even associating with individuals who have been "cancelled" themselves. Of course, the tricky thing about cancel culture is that it often operates in a highly subjective and unpredictable way. What one person considers a harmless joke, another might see as deeply offensive. What one group deems a legitimate expression of free speech, another might label as hate speech. All of this can be daunting, but I believe the key is to stay true to one's own values and principles, while also being receptive to feedback and willing to learn from others. It's important to engage in thoughtful dialogue and debate, rather than simply writing off anyone who disagrees with us. At the end of the day, we all have a responsibility to be mindful of the impact our words and actions have on others, and to strive for a more inclusive and just society. But we also need to be careful not to let cancel culture become a form of censorship that shuts down important conversations and stifles the diversity of viewpoints that are essential to a healthy democracy. Report by Duncan Williams @PulmansWeekly (at Pulman's Weekly News) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp2OK9xsa2w/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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HAS THE LAST CALL ARRIVED FOR YOUR LOCAL PHONE BOX? 📞 The red public telephone box is an iconic symbol of British heritage and history. It would be a great shame if we lost them altogether, even if in an increasingly cashless society we seem to use them less and less. First introduced in 1921, these telephone kiosks quickly became ubiquitous across the UK, and are still a familiar sight on many of our streets today. In rural areas, including some parts of the South West of England, with poor mobile reception or signal drop-out, the phone box can still offer a vital means of communication. ( Read more @PulmansWeekly ) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpzoMlsMFDi/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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The West Country is facing a growing cost of living crisis, with an increasing number of families relying on food banks to make ends meet. The cost of living has risen dramatically over the past few months, with the cost of essential items such as food, housing, and energy increasing at a faster rate than wages. According to recent figures, the number of people accessing food banks in the West Country has risen by over 50% in the past year alone. This is a worrying trend that highlights the extent of the problem facing many families in the region. The rise in food bank use is not just a problem for low-income families, but also for those on middle incomes who are struggling to make ends meet. Many families are finding it difficult to afford basic necessities such as food and heating, and are being forced to turn to food banks to put food on the table. The reasons for the cost of living crisis are complex, with many factors contributing to the problem. Rising energy bills, increasing food prices, and the high cost of housing are all contributing to the problem, and many families are finding it difficult to keep up with the rising cost of living. The government has come under increasing pressure to take action to address the cost of living crisis, and to provide support for families who are struggling to make ends meet. However, critics argue that the government's response has been inadequate, and that more needs to be done to address this growing problem. ( Read more @PulmansWeekly ) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpxMPkOM3Md/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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FOX HUNTING : SHOULD THE BAN BE REVIEWED? 🦊 Since the Hunting Act 2004 was passed, fox hunting with dogs has been banned in the United Kingdom. However, the debate over whether or not the ban should remain in place continues to rage on. On one hand, animal rights activists argue that fox hunting is a cruel and barbaric practice that has no place in modern society. They point to the fact that foxes are often chased for miles by packs of hounds, only to be ripped apart by the dogs once caught. They also argue that fox hunting is not an effective means of controlling fox populations, as there are far more humane methods available, such as shooting or trapping. On the other hand, supporters of fox hunting argue that it is a traditional countryside pursuit that is an important part of rural life in the UK. They argue that foxes are a pest that need to be controlled, as they can cause significant damage to livestock and other wildlife. They also argue that the ban on fox hunting has led to a decline in rural economies, as many businesses that rely on hunting, such as kennels and farriers, have been forced to close. Despite the ban, fox hunting continues to take place in some parts of the UK, albeit illegally. Pro-hunting groups argue that the ban has done little to stop the practice, and has simply driven it underground. They also argue that the police and other authorities are wasting valuable resources trying to enforce the ban, when they could be tackling more serious crimes. The debate over fox hunting is likely to continue for many years to come. While animal rights activists will no doubt continue to call for the ban to remain in place, supporters of hunting will continue to argue that it is an important part of rural life in the UK. Ultimately, the decision over whether or not to lift the ban will rest with whoever is in government and if there is ever enough public demand to see the ban either reviewed or completely overturned by repealing the law. What do historic and local readers of Pulman's Weekly News think about this issue? Our patch had hosted fox hunting for generations prior to the ban. (Read more and have your say @PulmansWeekly ) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpu_SQWsniH/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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HERE'S WHY YOU CANNOT BEAT A TRADITIONAL FAMILY SUNDAY ROAST - Sunday lunch has long been considered a tradition for many families, with its roots in religious observance and a time for communal gathering. In modern times, it has become a symbol of family togetherness and a chance for loved ones to catch up and connect over a shared meal. Research has shown that families who eat together regularly have stronger bonds and better communication skills. Sunday lunch offers the perfect opportunity for families to come together and strengthen those connections. It allows for a time of uninterrupted conversation, where family members can share their thoughts and feelings in a relaxed and comfortable environment. In today's fast-paced world, finding time to connect with loved ones can be a challenge. Work schedules, school commitments, and extracurricular activities often leave little time for quality family time. Sunday lunch offers a designated time for families to slow down and enjoy each other's company. (Read more @PulmansWeekly ) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cpr21jrL3TT/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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TOGETHER WE CAN STOP THE DEALERS - 💉 💊💊 Report from the Editor's Desk by Duncan Williams In recent years, there has been a worrying rise in county lines drug dealing in towns across the South West of England.  The police do a commendable job but members of our communities can also help by spotting the signs of drug supply chains and dealers targeting our towns.  County lines refers to a type of drug dealing where criminal gangs from urban areas expand their drug operations into smaller towns and rural areas, using dedicated phone lines to take orders and arrange deals. Small towns in East Devon and South Somerset can be ripe for county lines exploitation. Looking for quick profit and creating only misery. This type of drug dealing has had a devastating impact on local communities, leading to increased levels of violence, exploitation, and drug addiction. However, there are steps that can be taken to combat county lines drug dealing and protect vulnerable individuals from harm. (Read more @pulmansweekly ) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpqG3FlrqIs/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[theweeklynews]

Chesil Radio & Pulman's Weekly News Pull Together To Bring More Great Local News

Report by Nikki Latham from Chesil Radio

You may have noticed that we are producing more in-house news stories, this has been made possible by myself completing my freelance journalism course with distinction.

Within hours of this news, Pulman's Weekly News approached us about helping raise awareness of our news formats, with ourselves being initially audio-based coverage and now moving into publishing online, both on our website and social media sites. Pulman's Weekly News, with its roots in the print format since Victorian times, winning awards still in the 21st century, standing side by side, doing what we both do best and being there for our local communities.

Pulman's Weekly News' Duncan Williams said: "I first discovered Chesil Radio whilst living and working in Dorset for The Bournemouth Echo over five years ago and have been a regular listener ever since. Nikki Latham has a passion for broadcasting that immediately engages with her audience. I have been inspired, not only by the excellent daily playlists she selects but also by what can be achieved with a labour of love for local community media."

Duncan added: "Grassroots community news has never been in greater demand.  We are living through an era where trusted news brands, whether they be newspaper, radio or television networks, are all valuable source of local information which is too often ignored by national news corporations.  People access their news through a variety of mediums and it is a health thing that historic regional newspaper titles such as Pulman's Weekly News, seek to develop health collaborations between innovative digital publishers and community broadcasters such as Chesil Radio." 

We have been over the past few weeks, sharing the stories written by myself on the social media of Pulman's Weekly News and associated media pages, which we will continue to do with their support.  We always welcome more press releases, which can be sent direct at: nikki@chesilradio.com for our team here and direct to Pulman's Weekly News on social media: www.facebook.com/PulmansWeekly

Chesil Radio's station owner, John Latham says: "Chesil Radio is delighted to be working with Pulman's Weekly News, a media organisation founded in 1857.Giving us the opportunity to enhance the level of news and services, we can bring to our listeners within the South and South West of England."

John added: "I would also like to congratulate our Voluntary Station Controller, Nikki Latham, who during lockdown, managed to achieve her Freelance Journalism Diploma at Distinction level.  Nikki is one of the founding members of Chesil Radio and her work enthusiasm and commitment to the station has been incredible." 

We hope that you will enjoy the many stories that we bring you over the coming months and years.  All our stories can be found on our website at: www.chesilradio.com/news

[theweeklynews]

Pulman's news team bag Corporate Award for services to community

For a second year in a row regional publisher is presented with the Corporate Live Wire Prestige Award on behalf of Pulman's Weekly News & Advertiser Series.

Team leader Duncan Williams (pictured) took the opportunity to assert that : "Independent news has a vital role to play in maintaining the views and democracy of our regional towns and communities.

"I believe historic mediabrands such as Pulman's can actively grow with the digital age to offer increased communication reach and utilise the popularity of social media trends to rebuild a healthy culture of engagement with regional news."

Williams has also introduced free online learning and skills development courses via his hyperlocal news platforms in an ongoing strategy to "expand the long-term possibilities of community interest and service that can be offered by a modern regional publisher."

[pulmansweekly]

We have always been so much more than just a community media brand... During the age of the internet, particularly during covid lock-downs, we have been delighted to introduce more people to online learning.