Tom Symonds – Q&A

HomeQuestions and AnswersTom Symonds – Q&A

Name?
Tom Symonds

Age?
36

Where are you from?
Kent

How did you get started in broadcasting?
I did the postgraduate diploma in Broadcast Journalism at Cardiff and then joined the BBC as a graduate Regional News Trainee.

When was that?
1993

Why News broadcasting?
I thought about newspapers, but it sounded like a lot of time on a phone behind a desk. I still enjoy being out with a crew on a decent story.

Where else would have viewers seen or heard you before?
I’ve reported for BBC GLR (RIP!), BBC Newsroom South East (RIP!!) and now national TV and Radio news.

What is your Best on-air moment?
Getting through a ‘two-way’ interview about the future of the Post Office on News 24 when I was expecting to be asked about the future of Railtrack!

What is your Worst on-air moment?
Couldn’t possibly say for legal reasons.

What would you like to do before your career ends?
Cover something other than transport.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Sleeping, playing with the kids, writing music, running.

What advice would you give to anyone that would like to get into the broadcasting world?
When someone offers you work experience, give them one good story idea in return.

A big thanks to Tom for taking part.

Posted on Thursday 21 May 2009