It's Thanks to You

From a long list of 16 to a short list of three, last night the Rhuthun/Ruthin Blog received the first prize in the Wales Blog Awards "Best Community Blog" category.

First, may I say how honoured I am to have won. Last year, the blog made runner up and I was delighted with that so I wasn't expecting anything more.

More importantly, though, I am convinced that it is the interaction between blog readers that has contributed to the blog winning. Participation is high, including the response to reader surveys. I know that the blog comments have recently been through some difficult times. I know that it's been necessary to impose moderation. But it's the (decent) comments that give the blog its edge, a little bit more humour and a real sense of purpose within the community. So, the award is as much for those who comment on here (diligently) & responded to surveys. It gives the ordinary people of Rhuthun a voice. And it's also thanks to those who read the blog but don't feel the need to comment (we know that nearly half of readers have been with us at least three years). Thank you all for that.

Here's the complete list of winners.

For those newly visiting, if you are thinking of starting a community blog of your own, here are 12 things you need to know.