The Northern Echo has announced plans to convert to a compact format on Saturdays from next week.

The move is the culmination of a design project which has spanned a number of years.

The compact project has been led by production editor Ken Farrier, with design expert Mike Brough, of Fusion Creative Services, acting as consultant.

The objective was to retain the feel of The Northern Echo but to make it more convenient to handle, according to editor Peter Barron.

He said: “It has become clear that a large number of readers want us to move to a compact format but there are also a significant number who like the paper as it is.

“The Northern Echo is an institution and great care has to be taken with its future. We have, therefore, decided to try the compact for size on Saturdays.

“Reaction from readers and advertisers will dictate whether the paper stays broadsheet Monday to Friday or goes fully compact.

“So far, the market research on the new Saturday size has been overwhelmingly positive.”

The Darlington-based Northern Echo was first published on January 1, 1870, and is now a five-edition regional morning newspaper covering the North-East and North Yorkshire, with a daily readership of 149,591. It is owned by Newsquest.

Peter stressed that The Northern Echo would retain its unique blend of local, regional and national news, sport and features; well-loved columnists; and campaigning traditions.

However, the new Saturday paper, to be launched on January 14, will also feature an expanded sports pull-out, bigger and brighter motors section, and a unique guide to house prices in the region.

The Echo company was established in 1903 when ED Walker sold The Northern Echo to the newly formed North of England Newspaper Company Limited which was backed by the Joseph Rowntree Social Service Trust.

Under the guidance of Arnold S Rowntree, the chairman and Charles W Starmer, the manager, The Northern Echo became the foremost newspaper in the region.

Today, Newsquest (North East) Limited produces a large family of newspaper titles that includes The Northern Echo, Darlington and Stockton Times and Advertiser Series.