Tindle Newspapers has continued its expansion by purchasing a weekly newspaper based just ten miles away from its main headquarters.

The newspaper group, based in Farnham, Surrey, has purchased the Petersfield Post, which circulates just over the Hampshire border.

No official statement on the deal has been made by Tindle but Johnston Press, which currently owns the Post, has announced its intention to sell the title.

The Post and its sister title the Bordon Post currently employs six members of staff and JP has begun a series of meetings with those affected.

It said in a statement:  “Johnston Publishing Ltd announces its intention to sell the Petersfield Post, Bordon Post and associated websites to Tindle Newspapers Ltd.

“Therefore, under this proposal all six employees who work for these publications would transfer to a new company, Petersfield Post Ltd, owned by Tindle Newspapers Ltd should the proposed transaction be completed.

“The date for transfer is to be agreed but is expected to be by the 31st July.

“Meetings with staff will commence today on an individual and collective basis. During these meetings, we will explain the process, consider the implications for individuals and address any other issues that may arise.”

Tindle Newspapers, owned by veteran entrepreneur Sir Ray Tindle, is one of the few newspaper groups to embark on a policy of expansion in recent years.

Last year it purchased South East Devon weekly Pulman’s Weekly News and merged it with View from Axminster, which it bought in 2009.  Other recent purchases have included former Northcliffe weeklies The Forester and the Chew Valley Gazette.