Young Journalists Return to Jill Dando’s First Newsroom – Hosted by Mayor in One of His Final Civic Events
Exclusive by Oliver, 14, Jill Dando News; photos by Rupert, 13, and David Kenneford, former Weston Mercury photographer for 49 years
In a powerful full-circle moment, students from the Jill Dando News Centre were welcomed into the new offices of Weston Town Council by Cllr John Crockford-Hawley, in one of his final official engagements as Mayor.
The building, formerly home to the Weston Mercury, was where a young Jill Dando began her journalism career after leaving Worle School in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset.
But few moments were more poignant than the revelation that, over 40 years ago, during his first term as Mayor, Cllr Crockford-Hawley invited Jill to accompany him to several events as an unofficial mayoral consort — a touching connection that speaks volumes about their shared roots and community spirit.
“This is a special place — not just for Jill Dando, but for all of us who believe in the power of good news,” the Mayor said, delivering a heartfelt speech recalling his personal memories of Jill and her extraordinary legacy.
The event also marked a special reunion between the Mayor and the student reporters who met and interviewed him at Worle School last summer.
Since then, he has become an official patron of Jill Dando News and joined the students in Westminster to meet the Speaker of the House of Commons.
Now, students from Worle School, Priory School, and The King Alfred School Academy returned to the very place where Jill’s journey began — a newsroom that once buzzed with typewriters and ambition, and where kindness and professionalism were first woven into her storytelling.
During the visit, Cllr Crockford-Hawley led the students on a guided tour of the stunning Grade II listed building on Waterloo Street and shared stories of former top BBC TV presenter Jill — the “smiling face of Britain.”
Among the guests were Nigel Dando, Jill’s brother and fellow journalist; fellow patron Andrew Scott, founder of the Ascot Group; and new patron Olivia Finch, 19, the very first Jill Dando News reporter from Worle School when aged 12.
Weston’s MP Dan Aldridge — also recently appointed as a patron — attended as well, with students eagerly seizing the chance to interview him and other dignitaries.
Archie, a Year 7 student and the youngest ever editor of the Good News Post, said: “I like to interview powerful people,” after questioning the Mayor alongside fellow Year 7 reporter Enid.
Year 8 student Rupert teamed up with former Mercury photographer David Kenneford to document the event in striking images.
The young journalists described the visit as “inspiring” and “unforgettable,” and said they were honoured to follow in Jill’s footsteps.
What began at Worle School has now spread to multiple schools across the region — and even as far as Malawi — under the growing banners of Jill Dando News and the Good News Post.
There is also a centre at Jill’s first school, Mendip Green, and at Ashcombe Primary School, where the seeds of Jill Dando News began alongside Priory School
The movement equips young people with essential skills in journalism, public speaking, business, emotional intelligence, and leadership — all rooted in kindness, optimism, and a smile.
As the day concluded, Cllr Crockford-Hawley left the young reporters with this message: “Jill started right here — and look how far she went. Now it’s your turn.”
Jill Dando became one of Britain’s most loved and respected television presenters before her tragic death in 1999 at the age of 37.
These young reporters are now committed to carrying forward her legacy of kindness, humility, and positivity — not just in Weston and Somerset, but across the globe.
If you have a positive story or uplifting news to share, we’d love to hear from you!
Just email us at news@goodnewspost.co.uk.
Whether it's a local hero, an act of kindness, or a personal win, your story could help spread joy and improve someone’s mental health. Let’s make the world a little brighter, one good news story at a time.
And don’t forget—you can sign up for free to get the latest feel-good stories straight to your inbox!
