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  • There's Someone in Reception

  • Adventures in Local Journalism
  • By: Alex Morrison
  • Narrated by: Richard Godden
  • Length: 6 hrs and 14 mins
  • 5.0 out of 5 stars (5 ratings)

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There's Someone in Reception

By: Alex Morrison
Narrated by: Richard Godden
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Summary

“There’s a man in reception with a massive slug. Can you come down and interview him?”

Welcome to the life of a local journalist, and the curious tradition of the “walk-in” – when a member of the public turns up with a tale to tell. The newsworthiness of these stories is... well... mixed, to say the least. But every journalist remembers their weirdest and most wonderful walk-ins.

From stories that made international headlines and exposed major crime networks, to readers who walked in with a hand grenade and a bag of dead bats, There's Someone In Reception explores the good, the bad and the downright bizarre of working in local news.

Based on interviews with generations of journalists – with stories from the 1950s to the 2020s – it covers the glory days, the disastrous decline of local papers and the signs of hope now emerging in many places.

Alex Morrison spent a decade in journalism, as a reporter then editor for several local newspapers, before covering national news for the BBC.

©2024 Alex Morrison (P)2024 Alex Morrison

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A Wonderful Slice of Oddball British Culture

This is truly a captivating book that offers an intriguing glimpse into the bizarre and often humorous world of local newspaper offices. The author compiles an array of quirky, strange, and sometimes touching stories brought in by walk-in visitors. Each anecdote is a testament to the eccentricity and unpredictability of everyday life, revealing the unexpected characters who find their way to the reception desk with tales that range from the unbelievable to the utterly mundane.

Narrated with a blend of wit and warmth, the audiobook keeps listeners engaged with its diverse array of narratives, making it a delightful listen for anyone interested in the oddities of human behavior and the rich tapestry of stories that populate local newsrooms. It really capture the essence of these encounters makes for an entertaining and enlightening experience, shedding light on the often overlooked but endlessly fascinating world of local journalism.

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A fabulous look at why local news matters

There are so many brilliant stories in here which will be a trip down Memory Lane for anyone who worked in local news. But more than that, this book perfectly taps into why local newspapers matter, the role they play in communities and just what we stand to lose if they disappear.

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  • JB
  • 06-06-24

Funny and insightful look into local Joirnalism

Brilliant! I thoroughly enjoyed all the stories. The narration is also excellent. I recommend to anyone who enjoys the eccentricity of the British public.

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Expertly constructed and delivered

Just finished the Audio book. Really enjoyed the blend of amusing, sincere and totally bonkers anecdotes. Well done Alex.

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