*HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL
Peter Clifton, head of BBC online, arrived in boisterous manner (he didn't hit anyone on the way in: he just warned us of his own propensity to swear a lot). His message was fraught with danger yet laced with hope.

It is often disheartening to be repeatedly informed of the growth of UGC. Apparently now everyone Tom, Dick or Harry can be a journalist, and not only this but the BBC are providing free online lessons for these people to better their skills. After the 7/7 bombings the BBC was inundated with unsolicited photos, videos and information from people of all kinds, not asking for money but just hoping that they can aid the spread of information about this event (and see their name in lights).

In many ways this is an excellent vindication of the journalists' role: people want news. People have an innate thirst for knowledge, and also have a desire to be a part of it, which is wonderful.

In other ways this is depressing, I am paying massive monies to learn a dying art, or am I? Mr. Clifton was keen to point out that he valued base journalism skills as a prerequisite for anyone wishing to secure a job in his team, even throwing a swear or two into the mix to make it extra clear.

Online will definitely have the lion's share of the future and with it will come a certain democratisation of content but Journalistic skills will always have their place. Thankyou Mr. Clifton.