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Meet Robbie Armstrong

Why I wanted to start a new publication in Glasgow

I’m a journalist, radio producer and reporter from Glasgow. I’ve written about food and drink, environmental issues and the arts for Vittles, Noble Rot, the Sunday Times, Wicked Leeks, the Fence and Pellicle. As an audio producer I’ve produced episodes of the Food Programme, Archive on 4 and Pick of the Week for BBC Radio 4. I’ve explored land reform on the Scottish island of Bute, the impact of climate change on winemaking in England and France, and the folkloric story of the Catman of Greenock. 

In my home city, I’ve written a profile of one of the city’s most-loved pubs, produced an archival documentary about the history of the city’s motorway, and made a programme about the central role of food in Glasgow’s refugee and asylum seeker community. I’ve reported on the magnet fishing trend for the Guardian, BBC News and BBC Radio Scotland, written a short food guide for National Geographic, and explored gentrification and Sikh food traditions for Greater Govanhill. I worked as a sub editor and local news journalist before joining the BBC, where I made live radio shows as well as short news and lifestyle packages. I have also worked as a Glasgow restaurant reviewer for the List. 

I’ve been inspired by the astonishing rise of Mill Media, the small independent media company behind The Bell, and its focus on high quality long-form features, investigations and narrative-driven storytelling – the sort of journalism that takes time, careful thought and close attention. When I heard that the company was thinking of expanding to other cities last year, I got in touch and suggested launching a title in Glasgow. Why? Because this city has one of the proudest media traditions in the world, but in recent years there are fewer opportunities for journalists to do the kind of work they are capable of, producing the kind of stories that we need to read.

Today, Glasgow finds itself in a unique position in Scotland. Not only is it its sole metropolitan area, it is also a city with pressing social and civic problems which deserve more in-depth reporting. From our underutilised riverfront to our inner city motorway, from the leafy suburbs to the densely populated residential blocks, I’m eager to probe Glasgow's predicaments, map out its untapped potential, and champion our rich culture and heritage.

I'd love to hear from you if you have a story you think we should cover or if you just want to say hello. Just drop me an email, and please make sure to join our free mailing list if you haven't already.



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