Love Where You Live events can generate great stories for local newspapers, radio and TV. The local media is always on the look out for news stories, but you need to know how to approach them.

Approaching the media

If you give them plenty of notice - at least a week in advance for dailies and much more for weekly or monthly publications/programmes - the news desk can put the date in their diary. And it pays to pester (politely and not too much, of course), so it's a good idea to contact them the day before to remind them of your event.

Here are some things you need to think about when sending a news release:

> What's the angle? If you can come up with a quirky or interesting line that makes your event stand out from the crowd, you're much more likely to be newsworthy.

> Timing: Photo calls in the morning are preferable, so deadlines can be met for evening newspapers or broadcasts.

> Key information: Make sure you communicate when and where the event is taking place; why you chose this particular place; who is taking part.

Of course, there are no guarantees that the media will cover your story. But give it your best shot and you'll be in with a good chance.