Speedy Spotlight: Scaryduck

Scaryduck will be featured in this week’s Media Updates. Author Alistair Coleman started the blog in February 2002 and therefore has archives going back the best part of 12 years. Scary Duck was named the Guardian’s Best British Blog in 2002 and it also won Funniest UK Blog in 2012. Alistair has been a finalist in the global Bloggie awards three times.

Why should people read your blog?
I try not to make it read like a blog – it’s things I find funny, annoying or interesting. It might look chaotic sometimes, but I genuinely care about the content.

What makes your blog different?
It’s changed down the years. It used to be a collection of funny stories, but now it’s more like a weekly magazine column with occasional gags and jokes thrown in. It’s become more focused toward a mature readership, but then I’m suddenly in my late forties, into my second marriage and realising I’m no longer bullet-proof.

What’s your favourite blog and why?
I’m still a huge fan of Diamond Geezer – he’s blogged near enough daily for a decade, and the attention to detail is astonishing.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start a blog?
Here are the total number of damns you should care about what other people think about your blog: None. Write it for yourself, whenever you want, whatever you want. (But worry when your hit counter gets stuck in the low 200s).

How does a good PR work with you?
I face PRs in my working life, and you’re not so bad. I like PRs that get to the point so you can get on with your job!

What was your blogging highlight of 2013?
My other labour of love (Angry People in Local Newspapers) popping up on news websites around the world. I was world famous in the Netherlands just the other week.

What will be big in your blogosphere in 2014?
Inspired by David Sedaris, I’m hoping to change my style to mix intelligence and humour. Not to copy him, but to move toward a more mature audience. It’s an experiment that may end up in book form if I get the time.

Editorial information on Alistair Coleman, Scaryduck and thousands of other media contacts and outlets, can be found in the CisionPoint Media Database.