The Reading Chronicle, first published in 1773, has printed its final broadsheet edition before turning tabloid next week.
The 236-year-old paper, a paid-for weekly, reported that the decision was “momentous”. The first tabloid will come out on Thursday, 26 March.
According to ABC, the Chronicle had a 9,392 circulation in the second half of 2008. It is owned by the Berkshire Media Group, part of The Dunfermline Press. It was formerly a Trinity Mirror title.
On Friday the Newsquest-owned Darlington and Stockton Times, a paid-for weekly first published in 1847, printed its first tabloid edition.
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Chronicle editor Sally Stevens said: “Since it was first published in 1773, the Chronicle has been quick to reflect the demands of the readers, advertisers and communities it serves.
“Back in independent ownership, the Chronicle is still delivering quality journalism, but after 236 years the momentous decision has been taken to switch from a broadsheet format in response to overwhelming demand from the people who know it best – our army of readers, key contacts and advertisers.
“The compact size of the paper is a more modern format which complements our modern town. We’re proud of Reading and our association with the town is strong.
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“We continue providing quality local journalism within a modern format that meets the needs of our readership and advertisers.”
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