A weekly editor who has led his newspaper for the past 27 years is to step down at the end of this month.

Denzil McDaniel has worked for the the Impartial Reporter, based in Enniskillen in Northern Ireland, since 1973, becoming its editor in 1986.

He is leaving to pursue a career in freelance writing but will continue his links with the newspaper on a consultancy basis.

Denzil’s replacement as editor has been announced as Sarah Saunderson, who has worked for the title since 1994 and been assistant editor since 1997.

In a story about his departure, Denzil said: “I feel very privileged to have been with the Impartial since 1973 and I was very proud when asked to become editor by Joan Trimble in 1987.

“However, I feel that the time is now right for me and for the newspaper that I should pursue a number of other interests when I still feel able to do so.

“The paper is in very good hands at the moment, with a loyal and dedicated workforce. It will be a wrench to leave them, and not a decision I have taken lightly. But I am excited by this new phase of my career.”

Graham Morrison, managing director of the Romanes Media Group which owns the title, said: “Denzil has made an outstanding contribution during the past 40 years, developing The Impartial Reporter into a first class publication and winning numerous national awards for the paper.

“During his tenure, he has overseen the change of ownership of the business and integration within the wider group and his leadership skills ensured a smooth transition.

“He has been a fantastic ambassador for the business, enhancing its reputation in the local community and the wider media industry. He has also overseen the training and development of many excellent journalists – with many going on to win individual awards and work at the peak of their profession.”

Sarah initially worked as a journalist in Scotland before returning to her native Fermanagh and joining for the Reporter.

She has long family links with the title, with her great-aunt, grandmother and grandfather all previously holding positions there.

Announcing her appointment, Graham said: “I am sure that she has all the right credentials and attributes to take the Impartial forward into a new and exciting era.

“She is an experienced journalist who has an enthusiastic commitment to the newspaper.”

Further appointments at the paper include Mark Conway becoming deputy editor, Brian Donaldson becoming features editor and Gareth Cauldwell becoming deputy sports editor.