
Beth Hughes, of Flintshire, elected to take the automotive journalism module at Cardiff University, and was one of four students at the School of Journalism eligible to compete for Welsh Motoring Writers’ John Arfon Edwards Memorial Prize in 2017.
Their assignments looked at the future of diesel fuel, and Beth’s work examined the impact on the independent garage of increasing take-up of vehicles with electric power.
Beth, who recently took up a position as a reporter on the Flintshire Leader, based in Mold, said: “I was surprised and delighted to receive this award as the effect of EVs on small businesses and garages is a personal interest of mine. To be rewarded for something I enjoy doing is absolutely fantastic.
“It's a privilege to receive the John Arfon Edwards Memorial Prize as an aspiring motoring journalist, and as a Welsh-speaking student at a Welsh university. What a pleasure to be a part of it.”
The prize was set up by Welsh Motoring Writers in memory of one of the group’s founder members, and its first treasurer, John Arfon Edwards, who died in 2014, and is open to students taking the automotive journalism module at Cardiff university.
Sponsored by Porsche Cars GB, the prize also includes a driving day at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone, and two weeks’ work experience at Haymarket Media, with time spent on What Car?, Autocar and Pistonheads.
Cardiff’s unique Automotive Journalism module provides in-depth knowledge and skills for the next generation of transport and business writers.

Michael joined Penarth-based Automotive World in 2014 stepping up from staff writer to correspondent the following year. Now a senior member of the editorial team he has a remarkably full CV for someone still in his mid-20s.
Following first and post-graduate university degrees in music Michael gained experience in event management and music journalism, which he combined with composing and performing – interests which he still pursues. He plays competitive rugby on a weekly basis and enjoys working out at the gym, running and skiing.
WMW Chairman Huw Thomas commented: “This has been a truly memorable week for the group. Once more, Cardiff University’s postgraduate MA in automotive journalism has produced in Beth Hughes, a most worthy recipient of the John Arfon Edwards Memorial Prize. She takes with her our very best wishes for the future”.
“Similarly, I am delighted to welcome Michael Nash to the Group. He comes to us with a remarkable track record of success for someone so young. I am sure he has a great career ahead of him and will be a real asset to Welsh Motoring Writers.”