Doug Pickford is to step down from his post as the editor of the Post & Times series in Staffordshire.

In recent months Doug has suffered from poor health so has therefore decided to relinquish his role as editor.

But Doug will take on a new role as a weekly columnist with the Post & Times.

In his column, Doug will draw on his experience of more than 40 years as a hugely respected local journalist and author.

Doug was appointed editor of the Post & Times series in 2003, after the three newspapers were bought by Northcliffe from Hill Brothers.

He successfully steered the titles through the takeover period, reassuring readers and advertisers alike with his calm professionalism.

He became the public face of the Post & Times, in the local community, and won great personal respect for the way in which he carried out his duties.

The editor-in-chief of Staffordshire Sentinel News and Media, Mike Sassi, said: “I would like to thank Doug for his contribution to the many successes which the Post & Times has enjoyed, under his editorship.

“His unstinting loyalty and dedication have been much appreciated, by both his colleagues and his readers.

“I wish him well in his new role and hope that he will continue to have a long, and mutually beneficial, relationship with the Post & Times.”

Doug said: “To have been editor of the local newspaper in the town where I was born and bred has been a great honour and privilege. I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it and am sad to step down.

“But I know the newspaper will still be in good hands. I am confident that the Post & Times will continue to go from strength to strength.”

He was previously editor of the Macclesfield Express for 25 years and has also edited the Stockport Times, Wilmslow County Express, the Community News series and the Ad News papers.