Damian, a politics and international relations graduate, started his career as a trainee reporter at the Evening Gazette in Middlesbrough in 1990, progressing to become deputy business editor and then crime reporter.

He then moved on to the Portsmouth News as assistant news editor before moving to the Telegraph & Argus in Bradford as news editor, rising to become assistant editor. He joined the Evening Express as deputy editor in August 2003.

Damian said: "I'm absolutely delighted and thrilled at the prospect of taking the helm at the Evening Express.

"It is a fantastic newspaper produced by a really talented team in a beautiful and vibrant part of the world.

"I've worked with some top editors over the years and have learned a great deal from them which I hope will help me in my new role.

"Donald has been a great mentor and will be a very difficult act to follow, but I'm determined to build on his success and have some great fun along the way."

Damian takes up his post on April 24.