Columnist wins award for 'inspired' reporting

Deborah Orr, The Independent columnist, was named yesterday as the winner of the annual media award of the Howard League for Penal Reform for her "inspired and inspiring" reporting.

The league commended Orr for her work on social and penal issues such as social exclusion and antisocial behaviour. The award was presented by Sir John Mortimer QC, president of the campaigning group, at its annual general meeting at the Liberal Club in Westminster.

Frances Crook, director of the league, said: "We give this award to people whose contribution to the debate on penal and social issues is inspired and inspiring. It is for those who have taken risks in their reporting. Deborah Orr has done that throughout her articles and written with consistency on these issues."