P5 at Christie enthralled by Times newspaper talk

Amelia McElhinney

P5 pupils of DH Christie Memorial Primary School in Coleraine have been given a fascinating insight into the world of newspapers.

David Rankin, the editor of The Coleraine Times, visited the school to tell them all about his work. The 5MD pupils are currently learning about newspapers and are working on a school newspaper.

First David told his young audience about his job as an editor and then answered some questions. He also advised them on what makes a good article.

David’s job as an editor is to read the newspaper and check for grammar, spelling and punctuation mistakes. David told us “I really enjoy being an editor as I get to go to exciting places like football stadiums and meet many interesting people”.

He said that being an editor is hard work but well worth it.

One of the children asked David what inspired him to become an editor. David replied “When I was about six or seven a friend and I edited the first school newspaper but it wasn’t very serious, just jokes and funny stories really, but that’s where my love for newspapers first came from”.

David has interviewed many famous people such as Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson and politicians and often goes to special events like the Milk Cup and press conferences.

The P5 class really enjoyed David’s visit and hope to go and see The Coleraine Times offices soon!