A Scottish weekly has been named as the winner of a prestigious industry prize for newspaper campaigns for the second year running.

The Inverness Courier has been announced as the regional winner of the News Media Association’s ‘Making a Difference’ award, presented to mark Journalism Matters week.

The Highland News and Media title won the award for its ‘Build the bypass’ campaign to relieve traffic congestion in the Highland town of Nairn.

It follows the Courier’s success last year with its campaign to dual the A9 – initially promised by the then SNP-led Scottish government before it regened in the pledge in February 2023.

Winner of the national prize was The Sun with its ‘Footie For All Fund’ to help grassroots football clubs in crisis, amid falling participation from children.

Both awards follow a public vote held from Monday to Wednesday this week.

NMA chief executive Owen Meredith said: “The Making a Difference shortlist this year has highlighted the exceptional dedication from UK news brands, who have worked tirelessly to inform and engage the public.

“The Inverness Courier and The Sun can take great pride in their achievements. Their campaigns, ‘Build the Bypass’ and ‘Footie For All Fund,’ serve as prime examples of how journalism can effectively spotlight critical issues, demonstrating to us all the vital role of trusted, independent journalism. My congratulations to you both!”

The Courier launched its ‘Build the Bypass’campaign amid long-standing concerns over traffic, road safety and pollution in Nairn.

A key moment came in May 2024, when the newspaper organised a Build the Bypass public event in the town attended by Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop and leaders from Transport Scotland.