'Reporting for Exeter is a full circle moment'

Hello, Exeter!

I’ve been with Exeter Today for just over a month now, and when better to properly introduce myself than at the start of a brand-new year? You might have noticed a new name popping up on articles recently - that’s me! My name is Elizabeth Kings, and I am Clear Sky Publishing’s newest graduate trainee reporter.

A bit about me: I graduated with a degree in media studies from the University of East Anglia, but my journey to this role wasn’t exactly a straight line. Nor was choosing a university 300 or so miles away. In fact, I found this job by sheer luck - the power of LinkedIn is a wonderful thing!

Before that, I started my journalism journey at South Devon College. Back then, I was studying a very random array of subjects, with no clear idea of what I wanted to do. Like many young people, I felt haunted by the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” For a while, I didn’t have an answer. I even took a year out of education, feeling completely at a loss. But eventually, I gave A Levels another go and started writing for our sister paper, The Torbay Weekly. Fast-forward a few years, and after graduating from university, I’m back in the fold.

It feels like a full-circle moment, and I’m grateful to have found my niche in journalism, even if I’m still not entirely sure what I want to be when I ‘grow up’ (does anyone ever really know?).

I’ve always lived in Torbay, and with Exeter being my closest city, it’s played a significant role in my life. It’s seen me through countless fashion identity crises and more than a few fresh-home-from-uni pub crawls. Reporting here now feels like coming home in the best possible way.

What’s surprised me most during my short time at Exeter Today is how much it’s deepened my appreciation for this city. I feel more connected to the place I live than ever, and I’ve been fortunate to meet some truly remarkable people who make Exeter so special. Whether it’s local business owners, community leaders, or dedicated volunteers, the spirit of this city is genuinely inspiring.

Another “home” I’ve come to appreciate is the new hybrid work setup. Splitting my time between the office and home has made one particular member of my household very happy: my Staffy, Odin (or as he’s more fondly known, Odie).

I’m passionate about bringing Exeter’s stories to life. Growing up in a family of devoted football fans, I’ve embraced the passion of sport wholeheartedly. Whether it’s covering the latest triumphs of Exeter City or the Chiefs, highlighting local heroes, or delving into the challenges and opportunities our city faces, my goal is to capture and reflect the vibrant spirit of this community.

So, if you see me out and about - at a match, a community event, or even just grabbing a coffee - don’t hesitate to say hello. I’d love to hear your stories and ideas. Or, please contact me at elizabeth.kings@iconicnews.ie.

Here’s to a fantastic year ahead, Exeter - let’s celebrate it together!