The editor-in-chief of a group of weeklies in the South of England has quit his job after nine months.

Frank le Duc joined East Surrey and Sussex News and Media Ltd last year, having previously been made redundant from his role as deputy editor of The Argus, Brighton.

His brief included the editorship of the Surrey Mirror series as well as a strategic overview of the Croydon Advertiser, Crawley News and East Grinstead Courier and Observer.

However Frank, pictured, has now left the Northcliffe-owned group in order to “pursue other interests.”

Those other interests include a hyperlocal website covering Brighton and Hove, where he lives, which he helped set up last year with a partner.

Frank is listed on the website’s About Us page as its editor.

A statement issued to staff by Northcliffe South East editorial director Alan Geere said he had tendered his resignation “after careful reflection.”

“By mutual agreement, and in the light of the fact that projects like the move to Redhill and the Croydon portfolio relaunch have effectively been delivered, we have agreed that Frank need not serve a lengthy notice period in the office.

“Frank was keen for us to communicate to colleagues that he has been impressed and inspired by the talent, hard work and dedication of people at every level during his time with us.

“He also wishes everyone at Northcliffe continuing success in the weeks, months and years ahead.

“It has been a busy, exciting and challenging year in which our newspapers have made great progress. We acknowledge Frank’s contribution to these efforts.

“We would take this opportunity to thank Frank for this contributiuon and wish him well for the future.”