The Essex Chronicle has marked its 240th anniversary with the unveiling of a special plaque at the site where the newspaper was first published.

Chelmsford mayor Cllr Ian Wright unveiled a borough council blue plaque on the front of the High Street’s Marks & Spencer store, near the location where the Chronicle was first published in 1764.

A horse-drawn carriage brought the Mayor, Mayoress Mrs Carol Wright, Chronicle editor Stuart Rawlins, managing director Richard Karn, finance director Paul Newman and news editor Matt Adams to the ceremony from the Chronicle’s Westway offices.

Editor Stuart said: “This event recognises the Chronicle’s role in Chelmsford and the county during the past 240 years.

“The Chronicle has covered thousands of events, in millions of words, through the reigns of nine monarchs.

“Although it remains a traditional newspaper it is also looking towards the future, and I am sure we will be here in a further 240 years time.”

The Chronicle has also been celebrating its landmark birthday with a series of features on the newspaper’s history and a special exhibition in the Meadows Shopping Centre. A party for staff is planned for next month.