The editor of a paid-for weekly newspaper that was launched in Kent just months ago has said he is delighted with its success so far.

The Sittingbourne News Extra was launched by the KM Group following the closure of Northcliffe Media’s East Kent Gazette and was the first paid-for newspaper to be launched by the group since 2003.

Editor Matt Ramsden said ABC circulation figures for the title which was published on 14 December show that between 1 January and 31 March the average circulation for each issue was 5,687, with figures from the joint industry committee for regional media research estimating a readership of 16,146.

Said Matt: “We have been absolutely delighted with the response we have received to the paper.

“From its launch, which was achieved in just nine days, it has quickly established itself as a must read for townspeople – offering the very best in local news, sport and leisure.”

The East Kent Gazette was one of several titles that the KM Group tried to buy off Northcliffe Media owned Kent Regional News and Media. The sale was thwarted when the Office of Fair Trading referred the proposal to the Competition Commission.

Added Matt: “As with most success stories, Sittingbourne News Extra has a great team of talented and dedicated staff behind it.

“We’re very much looking forward to the coming months where we aim to further cement our place as Sittingbourne’s paper.”