A new search facility is to be added to scores of regional newspaper e-editions thanks to a new software tool.

Readers of newspapers’ digital versions will soon be able to search the text for key words or phrases in the same way they are able to search stories on companion websites.

PageSuite created the page-turning software which powers the digital editions of many leading UK regional titles, including The Scotsman, Eastern Daily Press and The Journal, Newcastle.

Now it has developed a search tool that will enable readers to search e-edition stories, with search results highlighted instantly.

PageSuite says the new facility will enable readers to find the content they want within the context of the page, so they can quickly assess the relevance of the whole article.

Managing director Nathan Parrett said: “Whether you read a magazine, newspaper or brochure, customers will find that PageSuite’s search facility is superior to that of other online publishing software.”

PageSuite powers the e-editions of all Johnston Press, Newsquest and Archant newspapers and some Trinity Mirror titles.

Other titles which use the sotfware include the Evening Leader, North Wales, Kent on Sunday and Bedfordshire on Sunday.