Regional press advertising revenue increased by 2.3 per cent in January to March, outpacing total press, which rose by 1.4 per cent and bringing £806.4m into the industry, according to figures released by the Advertising Association.
Classified advertising spend in regional newspapers increased by 1.8 per cent and display by 3.5 per cent, with national display advertising increasing by 7.5 per cent.

Belfast Telegraph columnist Neil Johnston has been honoured for his outstanding contribution to the cultural life of Northern Ireland.
He received an award at this year’s Armagh Festival of Traditional and Folk Song for his coverage of folk music over the past 25 years.

An intrepid sprinting duo from the Scunthorpe Telegraph have completed the Race For Life in Cleethorpes, raising more than £700 for Cancer Research UK.
Reporter Lynne Milford and receptionist Jill Everatt battled through a torrential downpour to run the 5km race in memory of family and friends who had suffered from cancer.

A Ryedale councillor who received an MBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list has dedicated her award to former Gazette & Herald reporter Hilary Sanders.
Hilary died of cancer in 2003 aged 57. She had worked for York & County Press, owners of the Gazette & Herald, for four years and had previously enjoyed a long career as a freelance and magazine writer and editor.

A signed ‘bad taste’ shirt worn by Ricky Hatton after his fight against IBF jr welterweight champion Kostya Tszyu has raised £1,020 for the Manchester Evening News charity, The Kirsty Appeal.
To celebrate becoming world champion Ricky maintained his tradition of celebrating with his pals at the New Inn in Hattersley near Hyde, where they all wore the most garish shirt they could find.
The highest bidder on ebay will have Ricky’s shirt presented to them by the man himself.