Young Journalists Honour Jill Dando at Her First Newsroom (By Oliver, 14)
World Exclusive by Oliver, 14, Jill Dando News
Earlier today, budding young journalists from the Jill Dando school-based Newsrooms,, visited the Town Council building (formerly the Weston Mercury offices) to celebrate the life and legacy of Jill Dando — whose tragic death was announced on the BBC on 26th April 1999.
The commemorative event was held in the very building where Jill began her journalism career, making it a poignant and powerful location.
Student reporters wearing Jill Dando jackets from Worle School, Priory School, and The King Alfred School gathered in tribute. The seeds of the scheme were planted at Priory School in 2011, with children writing and sharing positive news stories.
It later spread to Worle and King Alfred’s, gaining support from Sir Richard Branson, Fiona Bruce, the Speaker of the House of Commons, two Prime Ministers, and countless others.
These young reporters now find, write, and publish uplifting news stories on the Good News Post www.goodnewspost.co.uk and across wider media platforms
Among those in attendance were patrons and supporters of the centre, including Andrew Scott, founder of the Ascot Group; Nigel Dando, Jill’s brother; and Cllr John Crockford-Hawley, Mayor of Weston-super-Mare, who graciously hosted the gathering.
The Mayor, a close friend and former colleague of Jill’s, delivered a heartfelt speech about his memories of her and the importance of continuing her legacy.
He also led the enthusiastic students on a guided tour of the beautiful Grade II listed building at 32 Waterloo Street.
In his speech, the Mayor announced that the Town Council plans to unveil a blue plaque in the coming months.
It will be displayed in the public entrance of the building to commemorate Jill Dando and to inspire future generations with the story of ‘the smiling face of Britain.’
The young reporters were soon hard at work — taking notes, snapping photos, and conducting interviews with guests.
Among those interviewed were Olivia Finch, the very first Jill Dando News reporter, and Dan Aldridge, Weston’s Member of Parliament.
Archie, a Year 7 student and the world’s youngest editor, enjoyed questioning the Mayor alongside fellow Year 7 reporter Enid. “I like to interview powerful people,” Archie explained.
Rupert, in Year 8, put his photography skills to the test, teaming up with a former Weston Mercury photographer to capture standout images from the event.
The students described the day as “an amazing opportunity” and said they would love to take part in more events like it.
The Jill Dando News Centre, which began at Worle School, has more than lived up to its founding motto: “Worle to the World.”
It has since expanded across local schools and even reached as far as Malawi, forming the heart of a global ‘good news revolution.’
This inspiring initiative teaches young people not only journalistic skills, but valuable life skills too — skills that will stay with them whether they pursue careers in journalism or not.
The young reporters are only just beginning their journey, but with support from the Town Council and other organisations, they are determined to follow in Jill’s footsteps — and to be the best they can be.
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