Former Tabloid Editor Finds “Life-Affirming” Role Delivering Good News
Alan Muir, a former editor of the Scottish Sun, now shares uplifting stories for the People’s Postcode Lottery. Unlike typical journalism that often involves delivering difficult news, Muir and his team focus solely on spreading joy by informing winners about their prizes.
From Tabloid Editor to Winner Stories Team Leader
After a 30-year career at the Scottish Sun—starting as a reporter and rising to editor—Muir transitioned to heading the winners’ stories team at the Postcode Lottery. He personally visits winners' homes to deliver life-changing news, sometimes involving shares of a million pounds.
Operating Like a Newsroom
Muir’s team, including communications officer Pamela Stirling and news reporter Craig Stewart, works “exactly like a newsroom,” conducting interviews and preparing stories for local and national media, with winners’ consent.
“It’s turning the clock back 40-odd years for me to being a junior reporter knocking a door – there’s no difference at all. It’s what I always loved to do… every single week is different.”
Active Reporting and Tight Deadlines
With daily winner announcements, Muir’s team faces tight deadlines and extensive travel. Last year alone, they covered 120,000 miles visiting winners across Great Britain.
Experience Rooted in Classic Journalism
Muir relates this role to his early days in journalism at the Ayr Advertiser in the 1980s, emphasizing the joy of door-to-door reporting and storytelling.
Author’s summary: Alan Muir’s shift from tabloid editing to delivering winners’ good news combines classic journalism with heartfelt moments, making his role truly rewarding.