South London Guardian reporter Eleanor Harding has been named as Mind Journalist of the Year - beating journalists from a dozen national newspapers and magazines to win the title.

At a glittering ceremony at RIBA in central London on Thursday night Eleanor, the only journalist from the regional press to make the shortlist, was presented with the award to the surprise of seasoned reporters from the Observer, Guardian, Independent, Daily Mail and the Daily Mirror.

The award, which recognises outstanding mental health journalism, was for her work on a year-long campaign run in the South London Guardian series called Mental Health, It’s Everyone’s Business.

Developed in partnership with St George's and South West London Mental Health Trust a series of features explored a wide range of conditions, from depression to eating disorders.

After receiving the award at the ceremony, hosted by Mind’s president Lord Melvyn Bragg, Eleanor said: "Everyone in our community is affected by mental illness, whether that be through loved ones, colleagues or personal experience.

"Our year-long campaign aimed to break down the myths surrounding mental health issues in south west London, and we believe we were able to make a real difference at our local level.

"I'm so proud of what we've done, and I'd like to thank all of my colleagues who contributed to the campaign.

"It's such privilage to be here, thank you so much."

Group editor Sean Duggan said: "I am truly delighted that Eleanor has won this coveted award.

"Her articles, based on in-depth interviews with experts and patients, showed great sensitivity and threw light onto areas too often clouded by superstition and misunderstanding.

"This was serious journalism at its best.

"The award comes just a week after another of our reporters, Peter Truman, won the Reporter of the Year award at the 2009 Press Gazette Regional Press Awards.

"It demonstrates that quality journalism is alive and well at the South London Guardian, despite all the difficulties facing our industry at this time.”

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