Torquay Herald Express editor Brendan Hanrahan is to leave the newspaper at the end of this month.

He broke the news to staff this morning, explaining that he was stepping down as a result of a major structure and policy review of Northcliffe Newspapers.

Brendan joined the newspaper in March 1999.

He was formerly deputy editor of the Evening Post, Swansea, acting assistant editor of UK News, deputy chief sub of Today, and regional chief sub of the then Daily Express. He has previously also worked in Birmingham, Coventry, Nottingham and York.

In a memo to staff he said: "Most of you will be aware there has been a major structure and policy review and change in Northcliffe in recent times. As a result, I’ve decided to step down as editor and director of Herald Express Publications Ltd.

"While sad to be leaving, these things happen in business, and this profession in particular, and nothing can detract from what has been achieved here since I arrived in Harmsworth House in March, 1999.

"We have one of the best newspaper sales records in the UK regional press and, commercially, we are now in a much healthier and secure position.

"Can I thank everyone in the team, in all departments, for their help and efforts in helping us achieve this."

He said he had no immediate short-term plans for the future, other than to ponder his next career move.

Alan Qualtrough recently took on a new role as regional editorial director covering four titles in the South West, where he is already editor-in-chief at Plymouth. The other centres include Torquay and Exeter.