Abstract
The Cudlipp Award, presented annually by the BJR at the national Press Awards, has been won this year by the London Evening Standard for its Frontline London investigation and campaign, which penetrated London gangs and enlisted support from potential employers to help young people leave a life of crime. The campaign prompted political action, with the government pledging £3.8m to address the problem and mayor Boris Johnson appointing a gangs czar.
The judges said that the series, spearheaded by the investigative journalist David Cohen, boosted the Standard’s growing reputation as a cutting-edge campaigning newspaper. Established in memory of the late Mirror Group editor, editorial director and chairman, Hugh Cudlipp, the award was accepted by David Cohen at the London Marriott Hotel, Grosvenor Square in April.
The judges once again admired the high standard of entries, which made THEM difficult to whittle down to a shortlist of six. They were particularly impressed by the Sunday People’s vigorous campaign against the “bedroom tax”, which saw the paper regaining the editorial muscle of its illustrious past, and also the excellent investigative work of The Sunday Times in exposing Britain's disturbing modern slave trade. Both entries were highly commended.
The other entries shortlisted were: Block Online Porn, Daily Mail; Rugby Concussion Campaign, Mail on Sunday; and Safer Weekend Health Care, The Sunday Times.