Sun picture editor of 15 years leaves for agency after Elveden ordeal

The Sun's picture editor John Edwards has left the tabloid to join picture and video agency Flynet Pictures.

The move comes after Edwards was cleared of wrongdoing earlier this year following his arrest under the Metropolitan Police's Operation Elveden.

Edwards has worked for News International – now News UK – for 27 years and led the newspaper's picture desk for 15 years. He is also the son of long-serving Sun photographer, Arthur Edwards.

Flynet Pictures, based in Kent, was founded in 2009 by Danny Hayward, John Churchill and Simon Bridger. Edwards has become the organisation's director of news and assignments.

He said: "I am very excited to be starting a new challenge with Flynet and looking forward to working with the team to further develop their extensive content.

"It’s no secret the past few years have been incredibly difficult for me and my family. I worked with some brilliant people at The Sun but the time is now right to take my career in a new direction.

"I know Flynet prides itself on top quality service with a forward-thinking attitude. I am also looking forward to being part of its new website which goes live next Easter and has features that have never been seen before from a picture agency of this size."

Hayward said: "We are thrilled John has joined us. His appointment is a sign of our commitment to becoming the leading picture agency in the country.

"Increasing demand from our customers led us to look for an addition to our team who would fit in with our ethos of innovation and exceptional service.

"John’s wealth of experience and industry knowledge makes him the perfect addition to Flynet and means we can build, develop and expand on our existing success."

Edwards was arrested by the Met in February 2012. He was found not guilty of paying public officials for stories in January this year after a four-month trial.