Compositor-turned-journalist Jim Holland has won the editorship of the Kirkintilloch Herald Series.

Previously assistant editor of the Johnston Press-owned title, he retrained as a reporter after spending 18 years in production as a compositor for the Motherwell Times.

He decided to transfer to editorial 15 years ago, as new technologies meant there were less opportunities on the production floor, and joined the Kirkintilloch Herald.

Since then Jim, (48), has worked his way up to chief reporter and then assistant editor.

In his new role he is responsible for the four-edition paid-for Herald, which covers Kirkintilloch, Bishopbriggs, North Lanarkshire and Springburn, and the free Glasgow East News.

He said: "I think local newspapers have an important role to play in serving the community.

"The Kirkintilloch Herald has always been a campaigning newspaper and the previous editor was very keen that the paper should represent the views of the community.

"I hope to continue with that. I also want to see the paper evolve, rather than make any radical changes."

Jim succeeds Christine McPherson, who had worked at the Herald for 28 years, 18 of which were as editor. She is now working on a number of newspaper-related projects on a freelance basis.