From the editor: ‘Important public service’ is given royal seal of approval

The role our industry plays has been celebrated at the very top with a wonderful message of support from the Queen to mark the start of Journalism Matters Week, a celebration of quality trusted journalism.

The message reads: "On the occasion of the 2020 Journalism Matters week, I am pleased to send my best wishes to the members of the News Media Association [the organisation representing regional publishers].

"The Covid-19 pandemic has once again demonstrated what an important public service the established news media provides, both nationally and regionally.

"As our world has changed dramatically, having trusted, reliable sources of information, particularly at a time when there are so many sources competing for our attention, is vital.

"The efforts of the news media to support communities throughout the United Kingdom during the pandemic has been invaluable – whether through fundraising, encouraging volunteering, or providing a lifeline for the elderly and vulnerable to the outside world.

"As you reflect on your achievements this year, and the challenges you have faced, I send my warm good wishes to you all for a most successful and memorable week."

I am incredibly proud of how The Star's team has worked, on your behalf, throughout this year and grateful for such an important message of support, alongside the many we regular we receive from readers.

We have reported on every twist and turn of the local and national lockdowns and kept you up to date with vital public health information.

Whatever happens as we move forward, that work will continue regardless.

We have held power to account and robustly challenged the decision-makers on your behalf.

Let me assure you, in Sheffield, that hasn’t been easy and those with power in our city don’t alway like being scrutinised but that illustrates the very reason why the work of journalists is so vital. We completely rely on the support of you, our readers, and it is particularly nice to have a such a lovely message of support from our monarch.