Invaluable Experience With Bulls News

When I was asked to write a few words about my time with Bulls News I wasn't quite sure what I would talk about.

Having had a few weeks to reflect since the last game of the season, it's really stood out how invaluable the experience was - and I'm not just saying that because I was told to!

Back in July 2013, I got involved with the site and reported on a preseason friendly against Bristol Rovers. Those dedicated BN viewers who read it will know it wasn't a good report, but it was a start.

I wanted a career in the media, journalism particularly, and there was a well-read, independent website of my boyhood club who gave me the chance to develop skills, of course I took it.

From that hot summers day, I've gone from just doing home reports to also reporting away from home, as well as day-to-day news, running the Twitter account and setting up profiles on Facebook and Instagram.

It's been much like being a Hereford fan, addictive. I couldn't help but love contributing, sometimes breaking news, bringing a new angle to stories and having the chance to do things that I never thought I'd have the chance to do.

It was only since the club was reborn as Hereford that I got more involved and I've never looked back. Topping one million impressions on Twitter was something that made me smile, knowing that there is someone out there, somewhere, that does bother to read the tweets.

I can't really write a reflection on reporting for BN without mentioning Wembley. Although the scoreline wasn't what any of us wanted, or even imagined after Purdie's early goal. But being in the press box, surrounded by professionals and being treated no differently is a memory that I won't forget. I've still got the press pass!

While I wasn't with the 20k Hereford fans opposite me, seeing them from a distance was special, and it definitely didn't stop me celebrating Purdie's goal (professional, I know).

Contributing to Bulls News isn't for everyone, but for anyone looking for some invaluable experience, like I was six years ago, then just have a go. Going into university they were impressed that I already had some 'proper' experiences, press conferences, match reporting and writing news stories.

While the reports haven't always been flawless, there's a small, but dedicated, team of supporters out there who make sure that fans get the news they need. Not only from the club, but former players and other stories of note.

And down to the reason I'm leaving, I've secured my first job as a journalist and finish my degree today. It's already been posted on here that it's at the Hereford Times, a good place for a local lad.

They say all good things must come to an end, and that's what's happened.

Thank you for the opportunity, but also thank you to everyone who has helped me along the way. Chances are I won't be missing from the press box for long.

For anyone wanting to get involved in any aspect, email bullsnews@hotmail.com