Over 100 judges are to be appointed. Each national newspaper editor has been invited to nominate two senior journalists for the judging panels.

The remainder of the judges will be made up of independent figures from British journalism – including a number of regional press and magazine editors.

Press Gazette editor-in-chief Tony Loynes said: “With new categories to recognise the huge strides being made online by British newspapers – and to single out the extraordinary courage of our colleagues abroad – the 2008 British Press Awards will again be an event that recognises and dignifies great British journalism.

“They reward the best-of-the-best in what remains the world’s most competitive, exciting and fun newspaper market.

“It is Press Gazette’s pledge that the judging process will be completely independent, fair and transparent – and that we will do our utmost to ensure the only thing which influences our judges is the journalistic excellence of the entrants.”

Stage One:

04 February:
All entries to be compiled and judging packs to be sent out for first round of judging.

19 February:
First round of judging returned and marks collated and published as the shortlist.

03 March:
Shortlist announced

Stage Two:

06 March:
Judging of the shortlist finalists.

Winners announced:

08 April:
Winners revealed at the Grosvenor House Hotel.