GUILTY

The full-page photograph of a grim-faced Huw Edwards, outside court, wearing dark glasses, accompanied by the big one-word headline – GUILTY – packed a powerful punch. It wasn’t just the depiction of the disgrace and downfall of someone who was for so long a trusted national treasure that hit home, but also the ultimate vindication of The Sun, which had faced a major backlash against its near 18-month investigation into the off-screen abuse of power by the veteran newsman.

The Sun broke the story that the BBC’s news anchor had been charged with making indecent images, but it took months of questioning by the paper’s reporters before the Metropolitan Police and Crown Prosecution Service finally confirmed the news. The Sun’s investigation led to an apology by the BBC and Edwards’ departure from the corporation.

Despite the intense pressure and scrutiny The Sun faced for its investigation into one of the most powerful – and supposedly untouchable – figures in the BBC, it showed courage and tenacity in pursuing its story. And on Wednesday 31 July Edwards finally owned up to his guilt. “The Sun held the powerful to account in an unmatched exclusive,” said the judges, calling the front page “striking, graphic and impactful.”