Readers of a weekly newspaper in Essex are being urged to become ‘reporters in their lunchtime’ at the click of a button.

The Northcliffe-owned Brentwood Gazette has launched an iReporter application for use on iPhones and iPads so that readers can send stories direct to the newspaper at any time.

The app, which can also be used to send photographs and video footage, has already been launched by sister titles the Essex Chronicle and the Kent and Sussex Courier.

The news team hope that it could even lead to some front page stories.

Editor Neville Wilson said: “The launch of the Gazette’s iReporter app gives our readers a new, convenient way to get in touch with us and underlines our commitment to digital journalism.

“The best stories that are sent to us will make the paper. Who knows, one could even make the front page.”

The application was officially launched by the Gazette’s audience development manager Scott Hornsby at the third Brentwood Tweetup.

The monthly event sees users of Twitter in Brentwood meet up for food, drinks and conversation.

Mr Hornsby said: “The Brentwood Gazette iReporter app is our direct opportunity to hear from our readers at first hand.

“The most compelling news stories come from people who were there and who know what happened.

“Local news, events and sports stories occur every hour of every day and with the iReporter app in your hand, our readers really can make the news.”

The software is free to download from the iTunes website and allows readers to send their news items direct to the newsroom.