A weekly newspaper editor is leaving his job after seven and a half years to take up a new role running the newsdesk at a daily sister title.

Russell Cook is leaving Archant Norfolk’s Lowestoft Journal to become head of news at Archant Suffolk’s Evening Star.

It marks a return to Ipswich for Russell who has previously worked for the Star as deputy editor (news).

He will be in charge of the news team for both print and online editions, primarily for the evening title but also liaising with the East Anglian Daily Times.

Russell replaces Star news editor and assistant editor Jessica Gallagher who is leaving to join Suffolk County Council as head of external media.

During his time at the Journal, the paper has picked up a number of regional awards and launched the Pride in the Community Awards as well as a new edition in Southwold.

He said: “I’m looking forward to the new challenge working on a daily title but it will be sad leaving Lowestoft as I have so many fond memories of my time in the hot seat and working with such a great, hard working and talented team.

“I’ve been so impressed with the community spirit in the town that has been reported through the columns of the newspaper and I hope to be able to further develop that in my new role.”

Evening Star editor Nigel Pickover said: “I’m delighted Russell is coming back to Ipswich where he will provide another vital cutting edge to our joint news operation.

“This is a key autumn signing for both the Evening Star and the East Anglian Daily Times and comes at a crucial time as we embed our new system into the Suffolk editorial operation.”