Weekly newspaper publisher Scottish Provincial Press has appointed a new managing director.

Thelma Henderson takes over the top job after the retirement of Roy Fox, who held the role for 26 years.

The Inverness-based group employs around 300 staff and publishes 12 weekly paid-for newspapers, three free titles and a range of specialist publications across the Highlands and Moray regions.

Titles include the Northern Times, Ross-shire Journal, North Star and Inverness Courier.

Thelma, 45, was born and bred in Aberdeenshire and has always worked in the commercial side of newspapers, having started her career with Aberdeen Journals 26 years ago.

After six years she moved to Inverness where she has progressed up to her new post, having spent the last three years as assistant managing director.

Thelma said: “I am extremely pleased to have been appointed and given the opportunity to build on the successes of the group.

“The strength of our newspapers has always been their links with the local communities they serve.

“Having worked with Roy for the full 20 years I have been with SPP I have benefited greatly from his depth of knowledge about the communities we serve, the newspaper industry in general and, of course, SPP.”

Roy, who will continue links with the company as a non-executive director, said: “Thelma was interviewed alongside candidates from the wider industry and the ability, enthusiasm and drive that she demonstrated during this process secured her the position ahead of stiff competition. The board has every confidence in her.”