Southport-based Champion Media Group has announced the launch of a new free weekly newspaper in the North West of England.
The Crosby and Litherland Champion will have a door-to-door circulation of 30,351. It follows the launch last January of the Aintree & Maghull Champion.
The new title brings the Merseyside newspaper group up to six editions with a combined circulation of 139,305 across North Merseyside and West Lancashire.
The launch follows a year in which other publishers have closed dozens of free newspapers across the UK in the face of the recession.
Managing director of Champion Media Betty Drummond said: “As we enter 2010 it is vital that local businesses are able to reach more potential customers than ever before. Our new title with an additional coverage of almost 31,000 homes will offer an unequalled penetration of the area and a much needed independent alternative to an established monopoly.
“Merseyside has a resilient business community. We are used to making the most of adverse conditions and renowned for ingenuity and guts. Therefore, I have no doubt the Crosby and Litherland Champion will quickly establish itself and help stimulate business for local advertisers. Also, when cut backs and closures are still the headlines of the day we have created four new jobs in editorial, sales and distribution, proving once again that the Champion is a strong, determined group not afraid to face up to market challenges”
The first Crosby and Litherland Champion will be delivered on Wednesday, 20 January.
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