A NORTH Wales journalist was invited to Downing Street as part of a celebration of "Local Media Champions".

Suzanne Kendrick, Newsquest's North Wales Coastal chief reporter, responsible for news gathering for the Rhyl Journal and North Wales Pioneer, joined a select group of journalists from across the country.

The reception was hosted by Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lucy Frazer, KC MP.

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In a speech, the minister emphasised the vital role that local community media organisations play in providing trusted news and information during challenging times for the industry. 

Suzanne was nominated by Vale of Clwyd MP James Davies and Aberconwy MP Robin Millar, who both attended the reception.

Dr Davies said: “It was a real pleasure to welcome Suzanne to 10 Downing Street to a reception to celebrate Local Media Champions.  

"Suzanne has worked for The Journal for 10 years and can be rightfully considered a lynchpin of local journalism, bringing the community together and keeping us all updated with interesting and balanced stories."

Mr Millar added: "I was delighted to nominate Suzanne and to recognise her work as the Chief Reporter at the North Wales Pioneer.

"The approach she and the Pioneer took in their coverage of Home Office accommodation at Dolgarrog was a good example at a time when reliable and accurate information was paramount. 

"The Pioneer’s responsible coverage was an invaluable source of fast, accurate and reliable information for residents who were understandably concerned." 

Suzanne was joined by about 100 people from various newspapers, websites, community radio stations and blogs in the UK. 

During her visit she was able to speak with others from the media industry.

She, and the other nominess, were also shown the famous stairs featured in the Richard Curtis rom-com Love Actually.

Suzanne said: "Over the years I've written a lot of nomination stories. Never did I think I would be nominated for something, let alone be invited to 10 Downing Steet and walk through that famous door. 

"I found out that I had been nominated separately by both Robin Millar and Dr James Davies, which was such a surprise. To have this recognition means a lot to me.  

"I started at the papers - specifically the Rhyl Journal, in June 2013 - so I've been here nearly 10 years. 

"I love what I do. I've worked very hard to get where I am and every challenge I've been presented with, I've tried to give it my all. "

She added: "It is pretty special to work at the Pioneer - to report on the area I live in, and the Rhyl Journal has introduced me to people and a community I would never have met if it wasn't for this job. To give readers and residents a voice; a platform and to report on developments and changes that are happening within communities, it is something that never gets old."

Newsquest's North Wales Coast Digital Audience Content Editor Matt Warner congratulated Suzanne, adding: "This is a well-deserved accolade for Suzanne who is synonymous with our titles and our mission to provide people in North Wales informed with trusted local news."