THE Telegraph's chief reporter has won a coveted national press award for his investigation into the sale of toxic land at the former Ravenscraig Hospital site for a large housing development.

David Goodwin was named as Regional Reporter of the Year by the Scottish Press Awards judges.

The ceremony itself has been postponed until September because of the COVID-19 outbreak, however events chiefs decided to announce the winners on the date it was scheduled to take place - with David triumphing over runner-up Dale Haslam of the Evening Express in Aberdeen.

The judges said they were impressed with the 'initiative and tenacity' the Tele man had shown by 'refusing to accepting at face value safety assurances of the authorities'.

An event spokesperson said: "David Goodwin of the Greenock Telegraph seems to have made this story his own and created a significant impact.

"This kind of reporting enhances respect for journalists and has the potential to buoy the sales of regional newspapers."

Telegraph editor Brian Hossack said: "This is richly deserved for all the hard work David put into this superb series of stories over a sustained period of time.

"His determination to uncover the truth and ability to mine information from a variety of sources are testament to his abilities as a top journalist.

"All of his colleagues at the Telegraph are delighted for him."

David added: "I'm chuffed to bits to have won.

"I love working for the Telegraph and serving our readers and hope to continue doing so for years to come."