The new compact Keighley News is proving popular with readers, registering a three per cent increase in sales three weeks into the new format.

The newspaper now tops the 16,000-mark, according to editor Malcolm Hoddy.

A cross-departmental task force had been working since last August to look at the options.

Dummies were produced and taken out to readers and advertisers for their views and changes made.

Malcolm said: “The reaction from readers and advertisers has been fantastic. Being good Yorkshire folk they have made their comments known straight from the shoulder.

“Thankfully the majority of them have been really positive – all saying how much easier it is to handle. We have subsequently made changes to meet their needs.

“We also had a cracking front page story which generated a tremendous reader reaction – with more than 20 comments being posted on our website within the first 24-hours.”