A PRESTIGIOUS journalism prize could be on its way to Renfrewshire...after a reporter at Barrhead News was named as a finalist in the Scottish Press Awards.

Jack Haugh, 24, is one of just five reporters from newspapers across Scotland to be shortlisted in the Local/Weekly Feature Writer of the Year category.

Judges were impressed by his work on a series of hard-hitting articles, including a feature on efforts by Sandy Smith and Jayne Taylor-Savery to make sure victims of child abuse at Quarriers Village, in Bridge of Weir, are not forgotten.

He also hit the mark with an exposé on the level of racism faced by Renfrewshire councillor Michelle Campbell, as well as a feature highlighting Lochwinnoch charity champion Corinne Hutton’s bond with children at St Margaret’s Primary, in Johnstone.

The award winners will be announced on April 23.

Jack, who is also a reporter at our sister title The Gazzette, said: “I would like to say a huge thank-you to everyone at The Gazette and Barrhead News who has supported me throughout the last year and to all of our readers for continuing to back us.

“I especially want to thank Michelle, Sandy, Jayne and everyone at St Margaret’s Primary for giving me their time.”

Read Jack's story on Sandy Smith's fight for justice for Quarriers abuse victims