Joe Stashko(L) and Andy Halls

Two student journalists are launching a hyperlocal news site in Preston later this month.

 The site www.mypreston.com is brainchild of second year Andy Halls and Joseph Stashko who is in his first year.

 “It will fill the void left by shrinking budgets and journalists with limited time. As regional news feels the pressures of the recession, gaps in local news are forming.   Grassroots news is going unreported, and the accountable are being left unchallenged.

 “Local newspapers have lost touch with the audience they are writing for, and we hope to re-build these bridges, reporting the news the community want, and need to know,” said Andy.

 The duo are already recruiting students but are keen to attract outside contributors. “Anyone interested in writing about niche topics is welcome, but a keen interest in local news and telling stories in a variety of different ways is key,” said Joseph.

 The founders are adamant that www.mypreston.com won’t be another student website but will provide news reporting that anyone will want to read.

 Andy Dickinson senior lecturer in online journalism said; “This is a great idea. The future of journalism is not just about trying to understand the different ways that people will want to get their news but also the way we can get people involved and engaged. Hyperlocal sites are a great way to explore those issues.

 “Any student who gets involved with this would be adding valuable experience to their CV. There is a bright future for journalists who are passionate and engaged.”

 Further information: ajhalls@uclan.ac.uk jstashko-adamaszek@uclan.ac.uk

 Twitter: @ajhalls1/@JosephStash