Epigram (newspaper)

Epigram (newspaper) is the independent student newspaper of the University of Bristol. Founded in 1988, it is published fortnightly during term time and operates both in print and online, covering university news, local affairs, national politics, and cultural commentary. The publication is entirely student-run, with editorial and managerial positions held by undergraduates, and is funded through advertising revenue and a grant from the University of Bristol Students' Union.

History

The newspaper was established in 1988 by a group of students including Simon Pegg, who later achieved fame as an actor and comedian, seeking to create an alternative to existing campus media. Its early years were marked by a satirical and provocative tone, often challenging university authorities and covering contentious issues within the University of Bristol and the wider city. A significant early milestone was its coverage of the 1996 Newbury bypass protests, where student journalists reported firsthand on the environmental demonstrations. The publication transitioned to a full-color format in the early 2000s and launched its comprehensive website, expanding its digital presence and readership beyond the Clifton campus. Throughout its history, *Epigram* has maintained editorial independence despite its funding links, occasionally sparking debates with the University of Bristol Students' Union over its critical reporting.

Content and style

The newspaper typically features sections dedicated to News, Comment, Features, Science, Sport, and Arts & Culture, providing a platform for student journalism on a wide array of subjects. Its style blends traditional news reporting with investigative pieces, opinion columns, and interviews, often focusing on issues relevant to the student body such as tuition fees, housing, and campus events. Notable recurring features include in-depth investigations into university governance, coverage of the annual Bristol University Rag (student society) events, and critical reviews of performances at the Bristol Old Vic and Hippodrome, Bristol. The design has evolved to include high-quality photography and graphics, with a tone that ranges from earnest to irreverent, reflecting its founding spirit.

Notable contributors

Many former writers and editors have pursued prominent careers in media, politics, and the arts. Founder Simon Pegg served as its first editor and later contributed cartoons, while other early contributors include James Landale, now a BBC diplomatic correspondent. Notable alumni include Mishal Husain, a presenter for BBC Radio 4's Today programme, and Alex Wickham, political journalist for Bloomberg News. The newspaper has also featured guest contributions from figures such as Marina Hyde of The Guardian, and interviews with notable personalities including Stephen Fry, Tony Benn, and David Cameron during their visits to the University of Bristol.

Awards and recognition

*Epigram* has been consistently recognized within the student media sector, winning multiple awards from the Guardian Student Media Awards and the National Union of Students (NUS) media competitions. It was named 'Student Publication of the Year' at the Guardian Student Media Awards in 2003 and 2018, with individual writers receiving accolades for features, news reporting, and sports journalism. The newspaper has also been shortlisted for awards from the Press Gazette and the Association of British Science Writers, highlighting the quality of its specialist science and investigative reporting.

Circulation and readership

The print edition has a circulation of approximately 5,000 copies per issue, distributed freely across the University of Bristol campuses, including Royal Fort, Senate House, and student union buildings in Clifton. Its primary readership consists of the university's undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as academic staff and members of the local community in Bristol. The online edition, through its website and social media channels, attracts a significantly wider audience, with monthly readership figures often exceeding 50,000 unique visitors, particularly during major university or city events like the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta or student protests.

Category:Student newspapers published in the United Kingdom Category:Publications established in 1988 Category:University of Bristol