The editorial director of MEN Media Weekly Newspapers is leaving the company after 14 years at the end of October.

Richard Catlow spearheads the weekly division whose titles include the Macclesfield Express and Rochdale Observer.

A statement issued by MEN Media today said: “Due to the recent re-organisation of the senior editorial management team at MEN Media’s Weekly Newspapers, Richard Catlow will leave the company on Friday 31 October after 14 years service.

“Stewart Rigby, editorial director, will take full responsibility for the editorial department at MEN Weekly Newspapers and (circulations director) Alan Brown will assume responsibility for newspaper sales.

“There are no other editorial redundancies.”

Mr Catlow, who is also chairman of the Society of Editors North West, is not going to be replaced.

Last month it emerged that MEN Media planned to close several branch offices and move journalists to neighbouring centres.

Other recent developments at MEN Media include the pending departure of managing director Mark Rix, who is leaving to become chief executive of Dubai-based Catchpole Communications in January.

He will be replaced by Ruth Spratt who is digital and broadcast director of Guardian Media Group Regional Media.

Paul O’Halloran is the new managing director of Surrey and Berkshire Media which runs a series of weekly titles.