Talking paper honoured

Volunteer readers for the Talking Newspaper Association of the UK received a special contribution accolade from Esther Rantzen in recognition of work done by volunteers at the association's Heathfield studios.

In particular the Chat team was nominated by their legions of listeners.

Readers Sonia Locke and Penny Thomas enjoyed a day-long studio tour and lavish lunch before Esther Rantzen, joined by BBC South presenter Sally Taylor and Stuart Norval, presented the ceremony for Community Champions Awards.

The awards seek to recognise individuals or groups who make a difference in their community.

The BBC had visited the national recording centre at Heathfield to film the work that goes into each audio publication.

Sonia Locke said: 'It's important to raise the profile of the association for people who have sight difficulties and may not know we are here, tucked away in the depths of Sussex.'

The association has produced alternative format versions of national newspapers and magazines for 25 years.

Currently more than 200 titles are produced on audiotape or in a PC compatible digital format for the visually impaired or print disabled.

Contributor Penny Thomas said: 'Everything a fully-sighted person can see on a newspaper shelf we will almost certainly cover here in Heathfield.'

Association spokesman Justin King explained the association is a registered charity and receives no money from the Government.

He said the Chat team in particular attract about 400 weekly subscribers.