NOT many young reporters are willing to dress up and learn to morris dance for a story - but it's that kind of dedication which has earned Weekly News reporter David Hemming Newsquest Somerset's Young Journalist Of The Year award.

David, aged 24, has been with the paper for a little under a year, but this week bagged his first industry prize in recognition for his efforts.

He was awarded the Leanne Gibbons Rose Bowl, presented in memory of former journalist Leanne, who worked for the Weekly News' sister paper the Somerset County Gazette before she passed away in 2006.

David was nominated by News Editor Simon Angear, in recognition of his "enthusiasm, dedication and ability" at such an early stage in his career.

And Editor-in-Chief Ken Bird agreed, awarding David the rose bowl ahead of the Gazette's Matthew College, who was also nominated in recognition of an impressive year's work.

David said: "I am overwhelmed. It's great to think that my efforts have not gone unnoticed during the first year of my journalism career."

The reward sees the Weekly News retain an award which was won in its inaugural year by former reporter Andy Whelan.