Newsquest launches new weekly paid-for in Cheshire town following closure of Trinity Mirror title

Newsquest is to launch a new paid-for weekly newspaper in Cheshire following the closure of a Trinity Mirror title in the area.

The first edition of the Wilmslow Guardian is to be published next Wednesday, and will cost 60p.

Earlier this year, Trinity Mirror closed eight free weekly newspapers in the Greater Manchester area, including the Wilmslow Express. According to ABC, the title recorded an average circulation of 12,996 in 2014. In place of the eight titles, it launched the Manchester Weekly News.

Newsquest's new Wilmslow title joins its Guardian series in the area, which already includes titles for Knutsford, Northwich, Winsford, Middlewich, Crewe, Nantwich and Warrington.

One extra journalist is being recruited to join the current Guardian team to work on the new paper.

Carla Flynn, who leads other titles in the Guardian series, has been named as editor.

She said: “This is an exciting time for the Guardian team and we’re relishing the opportunity to cover a new patch.

“The Guardian brand is already well-established in neighbouring towns.

“Our newspapers are more than 160 years old and people trust us to be their eyes, ears and voice.

“We want to build that same great relationship with the residents of Wilmslow.”

She added: “Through our printed title, website and social media, we want to champion everything that is great about Wilmslow, keep people informed about what’s going on in their area, campaign on their behalf and, of course, entertain.”

Regional managing director for Newsquest North West Chris Hughes said: “We have been engaging with business leaders and community groups over recent weeks and our plans have been universally well received.

“We need to see this support transfer into action now, with businesses supporting the title with their advertising budgets and the people of Wilmslow purchasing the title on a weekly basis.

“I have every confidence we can make this launch a great success.”