A FORMER Keighley News reporter has made history.

Moira Kerr, who trained on the KN and then worked as a general news reporter on sister title the Telegraph & Argus in the early 1980s, has been named Diageo Journalist of the Year at the annual Highlands and Islands Media Awards.

She is the first person since the awards were launched 31 years ago to take the top accolade twice.

Moira, who now works as a freelance for Scottish daily and Sunday papers from her home in Oban, was also named Feature Writer of the Year and was shortlisted in a category for top story of the year.

She said she was delighted with the awards and dedicated them to several people, including her husband Les Hazelgrave.

“For years Les has put-up with our plans being changed at the last minute when I have suddenly had to go out on a story – he has always supported me in everything I do and is an absolute star,” said Moira.

“I am also indebted to former Keighley News editor John Liddle – who was the best mentor any young journalist could have – and his predecessor, the late Harry Haigh.

“I was the last trainee Harry appointed, two weeks before he retired. I always remember him saying to me ‘don’t let me down’, which has spurred me on throughout my career.”

At the awards ceremony, in Inverness, Moira – whose previous Journalist of the Year title was in 2016 – received a £500 prize, of which £300 will be gifted to charity.

Tribute was paid by chairman of the judges, Gordon Fyfe.

He said: “Moira produces well researched, well written and highly engaging stories and features from her local community, many of which appear in national media outlets.

“Her work is of a consistently high standard, hugely deserving of our top award.”