In the annals of journalism, Berrow’s Worcester Journal stands as one of the world’s oldest newspapers, dating back to its first publication in 1690. Fast forward to the present, and this historic publication is embracing cutting-edge technology to reshape the landscape of reporting. Owned by the UK’s second-largest regional news publisher, Newsquest, Berrow’s Worcester Journal is among several papers adopting AI-assisted journalism to enhance its news coverage.
As recounted in a letter published on October 7, 1779, a disgruntled reader challenged the accuracy of a report in the journal, highlighting the challenges faced by journalists even centuries ago. Now, with the advent of artificial intelligence, the journal aims to revolutionize reporting by utilizing advanced technology to ensure the accuracy of its news.
Newsquest, responsible for over 200 titles including prominent names like the Glasgow Herald and the Lancashire Telegraph, has integrated AI into its newsrooms across the country. Eight “AI-assisted” reporters have been hired in the past year, employing an in-house copywriting tool based on ChatGPT technology. This sophisticated chatbot, drawing information from the internet, enables reporters to input essential “trusted content,” such as local council planning committee minutes, which the tool transforms into concise news reports, maintaining the publisher’s distinct style.
Stephanie Preece, editor of the Worcester News, emphasizes that AI doesn’t replace the crucial on-the-ground reporting tasks but complements them. While AI can’t be physically present at events like accidents or court proceedings, it empowers reporters to focus on such assignments by handling routine content generation.
Newsquest’s AI tool distinguishes itself by not generating content independently; a trained journalist inputs information, and the output undergoes editing and refinement by a news editor, aiming to mitigate concerns about accuracy associated with AI-generated content.
Newsquest’s CEO, Henry Faure Walker, attested to the efficacy of AI-assisted roles, citing an example from the Hexham Courant in Northumberland. During a notable event in September, when the Sycamore Gap tree on Hadrian’s Wall was felled, an AI system reporter played a pivotal role in maintaining news coverage, allowing traditional reporters to delve into investigative journalism.
Jody Doherty-Cove, head of editorial AI at Newsquest, acknowledges concerns about AI in journalism but assures the presence of safeguards, including extensive training and a new code of conduct. He envisions AI becoming an integral and uncontroversial tool in newsrooms, much like the internet’s role in supporting journalists to create enriching stories.
As the journalism landscape evolves, local reporters facing challenges of understaffing and budget constraints find AI assistance valuable. The decline in the number of reporters and local publications, as evidenced by the Charitable Journalism Project, underscores the urgency for innovative approaches to sustain the vitality of journalism.
In a dynamic media environment, Berrow’s Worcester Journal exemplifies resilience through adaptation, recognizing that embracing technological advancements is essential to navigate the ever-changing world of journalism.
