The Macclesfield Express has a new editor, with local man David Lafferty returning to his hometown paper.

He has most recently been editor of the Oldham Advertiser – also part of the Guardian Media Group – and takes over from Mike Quilley, who has returned to London.

Mike, who had been at the helm for the past 11 years, is credited with making the Express one of the strongest weekly papers in the north west.

Economics graduate David first joined the Macclesfield Express in October 1992, recruited by then editor Doug Pickford as a trainee reporter, after spending time working in the USA, Canada and Australia.

In 1995 David became sports editor and chronicled Macclesfield Town’s most successful years as first they won promotion to the Football League and then to the old Division Two.

He was appointed deputy editor in 2000, becoming group development editor in 2003 and then taking over at the Oldham Advertiser in November that year.

David Lafferty

David, (36), said: “I am delighted to be appointed editor of the Macclesfield Express and Times, my hometown newspapers.

“They are papers with a proud tradition, with strong links throughout the community and I aim to strengthen these.”

David paid tribute to his predecessor, who was also previously editor of the Wilmslow Express.

He said: “Mike has done a tremendous job at Macclesfield, establishing the paper as one of the finest local newspapers in the country.

“It is fitting he has left on a high with his efforts recognised at the Newspaper Society awards last week.” Do you have a story about the regional press? Ring 0116 227 3122/3121, or e-mail [email protected]