My blog post comparing the role of the journalist with that of a local blogger triggered intense discussion in the comments.

I’m signed up as a contributor to a project in the North East and said that as a member of a community there are absolute no go areas as I need to stay on friendly terms with neighbours.

The post has attracted comment from several hyper local bloggers contributing to projects through the UK and further afield. Almost all are concerned about personal exposure and the lack of backup both in terms of the support of a newsroom and the legal infrastructure of a publisher.

Have a read if you get chance. There is no doubt hyper local media is viable and that local bloggers are able to provide the content and reach of a regional newspaper but the issues of personal anonymity and legal protection need be tackled.

Related posts:

Why local bloggers may never compete with local media – 12 August, 2009
Journalists: devalued and misunderstood? – 7 July, 2009
The Newcastle Journal’s hyperlocal project (and a new channel for chicken updates) – 24 June, 2009
Trendwatch: Hyperlocalism – 28 May, 2009