Former Tabloid Editor Finds Fulfillment Delivering Good News
Alan Muir, who once edited the Scottish Sun, now shares uplifting stories for the People’s Postcode Lottery. Unlike traditional journalism focused on negative news, Muir’s role involves delivering positive messages directly to lottery winners, which he calls “life-affirming” after 40 years in the industry.
From Tabloid Editor to Lottery Storyteller
Muir spent three decades at the Scottish Sun, advancing from reporter to editor. Currently, he leads the Postcode Lottery’s team that shares winners’ stories, often involving prizes of up to a million pounds. He personally visits winners to deliver the exciting news.
A Team Working Like a Newsroom
The team includes communications officer Pamela Stirling and news reporter Craig Stewart. They operate much like a newsroom, conducting interviews and producing articles for local and national media when winners agree to publicity.
“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,” Muir said. “It’s what I always loved to do… every single week is different.”
Dedicated Fieldwork and Tight Deadlines
New winners are announced daily, requiring quick story turnarounds and extensive travel. Last year alone, Muir’s team traveled 120,000 miles to meet winners across Great Britain.
Author’s Summary
Alan Muir’s transition from tabloid editor to lottery storyteller highlights journalism’s rewarding impact when focused on sharing positivity and real-life joy.