The political editor of the Yorkshire Post is to be this year’s chairman of the Newspaper Conference.

Jack Blanchard joined the YP from the Worcester News in 2009 and took over as its Westminster-based political editor in February 2012.

He took up the role of conference chairman at its AGM this week which followed a lunch with Cities Minister Greg Clark.

The conference represents London editors and political correspondents of regional newspapers who are in membership of the Newspaper Society.

Jack takes over from Jon Walker, Trinity Mirror West Midlands and North East political editor, who now becomes vice chairman.

Said Jack:  “The Newspaper Conference performs an invaluable role in scrutinising the actions of Westminster politicians and holding them to account on behalf of communities across the UK.”

“Jon has done an excellent job during his time as chairman and I am looking forward to continuing his work over the coming year.”

The AGM also saw Annabelle Dickson, Archant Anglia political editor, appointed deputy chairman.