I think people who use X for work do need to let people know they won’t be readily available on this platform. I’m still here if you need to DM. But *obviously* this site is rapidly losing its usefulness for reporters and, like many others, I’m no longer spending much time here.

Meet the preacher John Swinney used to persuade Trump on Gaza thetimes.com/article/ff74fe7…

Why Scotland’s stone harbours are at risk of crumbling into the sea thetimes.com/article/de8fdbb…

There are obviously those who wish to weaponise mistakes in mainstream journalism - even very minor ones. There are people who simply want to demonise those of us who work in our trade. These people, including various online influencers, rarely acknowledge or correct errors.

Reporters don’t write headlines or sub-headings but in newspapers and legit media orgs we all work to try and fix mistakes as quickly as possible. So if you see something wrong on a story, let me know.

I can definitely be a “useless prick” by the way. Most of us can. We all make mistakes. I do. I’m lucky, I’m part of a team and that means most of my errors get picked up by colleagues.

Is it weird that this reply makes me feel nostaligic? After ages on BlueSky I’d almost forgotten how easily some people are manipulated by online influencers.

Good afternoon, Dr McFarlane. I am a reporter with The Times. A colleague is trying to teach you as a matter of urgency. How can we contact you?

I don't usually waste time posting on this platform but maybe it is the right place to push stories about AI-generated slop about SNP leaders? thetimes.com/uk/scotland/art…