The publisher of the UK’s largest regional daily, the Express and Star, has confirmed it is closing a weekly newspaper next week.
The free Hereford Journal, which incorporates the Ross on Wye and Leominster Journals, recorded an average circulation of 39,377 in 2013, according to ABC.
There will be no editorial redundancies made as a result of the closure, although Midland News Association did announce in April that 76 jobs – including 12 in editorial – were at risk of redundancy.
An MNA spokesman said: “After 24 years of publishing the Hereford Journal, we have reluctantly taken the decision to close the title.
“The final edition, with the cover date June 11, will be published next week. No editorial redundancies have been made.
“We would like to thank all the Journal readers and advertisers for their support and wish them the very best for the future.”
They added: “The MNA has completed the 45 day consultation process with staff over restructuring the business.
“At present, the company is in the process of notifying those staff whose applications for voluntary redundancy have been agreed. It is also consulting staff who may be considered for compulsory redundancy.
“The focus is on looking after the MNA staff so no further details will be released at this time.
“Our offices in Newport, Bridgnorth, Ludlow and Oswestry will continue to operate but the receptions will close, with accompanying redundancies.
“In all departments, the company hopes that voluntary redundancies can be achieved.”
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