Skegness Standard editor John Cowpe is to leave the paper – and embark on a new career in tourism – after 20 years at the helm of the Lincolnshire weekly.

From April John, (57), will no longer be found in the Skegness newsroom, but will instead be helping to run a caravan park in the seaside town.

He told HoldtheFrontPage: “After 30 years with Lincolnshire Newspapers in various forms, I thought it was time to have a change, wind down a little and spend more time with my family.

“I have a friend who owns a caravan site and wants some help to run it, so from March to November I’m going to be office manager.

“I’m hoping to do some freelance journalism and PR work as well, but when I choose to do it, and not reacting to deadlines.

“I’ve always thought that before I reach retirement I’d like a change of scene and more freedom over my time.”

John (pictured) began his journalism career shortly after leaving school, joining the Louth Standard in 1968.

Since then he has worked for many of Lincolnshire Newspapers’s titles, and spent eight years in PR, working for Lincoln County Council and Anglia Water.

Since taking on the editorship of the Skegness Standard John has seen many changes at the paper, including the introduction of new technology and a change in writing styles and design.

He has also played a part in the wider community, being involved with the local Chamber of Commerce and Civic Society, and launching the Standard Champions scheme which recognises unsung heroes in the community.

He also led a campaign which helped to save the ‘Fairy Dell’, a much-loved paddling pool that has been in the resort since the 1930s and was closed by the local council.

John said: “I will miss the people but I will still be living in the community and hopefully playing a part in it and reading the paper every week!

“It has been a big decision (to leave). Right from being a youngster my ambition was to edit my local paper and I was born in Skegness.

“I’ve enjoyed my time here. It’s been really rewarding – very hard work at times but a satisfying experience.” Do you have a story about the regional press?
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