The University of Central Lancashire has scooped grassroots journalism advocate Dan Gillmor for the latest in a series of discussions on the citizen journalism phenomenon.

Mr Gillmor is the author of 2004's 'We the media' which explores the development of citizen journalism and the implications for the mainstream media. He also recently announced a project with Berkley's Graduate School of Journalism and the Berkman Centre for Internet & Society at Harvard to found a centre for the study of citizen media.

UCLAN's journalism leaders' forum will be held at 5.45pm on 31 January at the university's Greenbank Auditorium with Mr Gillmor participating via video link from the US.

Mr Gillmor will be joined by Pete Clifton, editor of BBC News Interactive and John Fray, deputy general secretary of the National Union of Journalists. Cath Hearne of BBC London will also be speaking about the use of user-generated material from the London bombings in July 2004.

Those that are unable to attend can contribute questions and comments to the forum's blog.

• City University this week announced the creation of the Anthony Sampson chair in reporting dedicated to the late journalist and commentator. The part-time professorship will involve teaching and research at the university and applicants must be experienced reporters. The post is funded by the Gatsby Charitable Foundation and it is hoped that new journalists will be inspired by Mr Sampson's talent, curiosity and principled reporting.

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Union launches code of practice for use of citizen journalism
NUJ debate on citizen journalism chases its tail

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