In contrast to the many positive comments about the new size, John has received just three letters from readers saying they don't like it - and threatening to cancel their subscriptions.

But the editor has so far called two of them back personally, and has managed to persuade them to change their minds.

John said: "I'm thrilled to bits. One of them was an 82-year-old lady and the last thing she said to me was that the smaller size would be a lot better on her arthritis!"

In the run-up to the switch, the Evening Courier launched a huge in-paper promotion and also spread the word via local radio and the backs of buses.

Local station The Pulse broadcast from the paper's offices on launch day and, as the last remaining British evening broadsheet, the historic change made many local news bulletins.

The move to compact six days a week was in response to customer demand, with market research showing an overwhelming preference in the Evening Courier's patch for local news in a smaller, easier-to-handle format.

The switch also allowed for a reshuffle of content, with more local news at the front and a comprehensive what's on guide every day.