A weekly newspaper will hand over the reins to its readers this week for a project in which they will help edit the paper.

The Wakefield Express is launching the initiative to give local people a say about its next edition due out on Friday and is asking them to contribute their opinions and content.

The title is running a live webchat on its website all this week until going to press on Thursday afternoon, where reporters will post progress on stories so that readers can give their views.

Space is also being set aside in the edition for Readers Pages which will be filled with content from local people such as stories, points of view and photos.

A reader panel has been set up for those who are not online to allow a group of people to sit in on a news meeting and have their say on what is on the front and back pages.

In an article about the project, editor Mark Bradley wrote: “The Express will embark on an innovative scheme to allow its readers to help edit their own local newspaper.

“We have earmarked the edition of Friday June 7 to be put together with the assistance of all our loyal readers.

“We will be asking you to contribute both your opinions and your material to ensure the paper fully reflects your views.”

Under the project, readers will be able to post their views on stories using the Twitter hastag #youaretheeditor.

Journalists from the newsdesk will hold an interactive session on the site each lunchtime about what is going in the paper and the title’s Facebook community will also be involved.