The Western Mail has announced plans to convert to a compact format this autumn.

The move follows extensive market research by the Cardiff-based newspaper, which showed “overwhelming support” for the idea from readers.

The change from a broadsheet format comes 18 months after the paper was given a new look, which included the use of full colour throughout for the first time in its history.

The new format will be unveiled on October 7.

Editor Alan Edmunds (pictured), who joined The Western Mail in September 2002, said it would complement the changes made last year.

He said: “We have been delighted that the research shows that readers totally endorse the editorial changes made last year.

“They also overwhelmingly support the change to a compact format, which will be one of the most important milestones in the history of the newspaper.”

The change also follows the opening of a new £18m printing press at the newly-built press hall in Pacific Park, Cardiff Bay, by the paper’s publisher’s Western Mail & Echo Ltd, in July last year.