The chief reporter of Gloucester daily The Citizen has been appointed the new editor of sister title Stroud Life.

Ben Falconer, pictured, replaces Jason Chare who has been appointed chief sub editor and head of production at Gloucestershire Media.

Ben started his career in journalism in 1998 as a graduate trainee on weekly titles in Dursley and Stroud.

He has been Chief Reporter of the Gloucester Citizen since 2007 and was part of the team which launched Stroud Life in 2008.

Said Ben: “Becoming Editor of the best-read weekly newspaper in the Stroud district is a great privilege. The Valleys and Vale is a vibrant place to live and work and I look forward to reflecting the lives of our readers every week and on our website.”

Sarah Pullen, Managing Director of Gloucestershire Media, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have appointed Ben as Editor of Stroud Life. It is fantastic to have a fellow Stroudie in the role.”

Ben takes up his new role today.