A weekly newspaper editor whose career has spanned nearly four decades has left his role.

John Phillips retired as editor of the Buxton Advertiser last Friday after 38 years with publisher Johnston Press, having previously worked for sister title the Derbyshire Times.

It is thought he may have taken voluntary redundancy from the company, although this has not been confirmed, and it is not known if he will be replaced.

Also leaving on the same day was long-standing Advertiser reporter Emma Downes, who spent 18 years at the title.

Tweeting about his departure, John wrote: “My (nearly) last tweet as BuxAdEd. Going after best part of four decades with the Advertiser and the Derbyshire Times #EndOfAnEra.”

“Can’t go without paying tribute to my colleagues who have been an inspiration to me (I think it was supposed to be other way round…).”

Emma also tweeted about her departure, writing: “Have now officially left the Buxton Advertiser after 18 years. I am looking for new challenges in 2013.”

A notice about John and Emma’s departure was also published in the family announcements section of the paper from other staff members.

It said: “Good Luck to John Phillips and Emma Downes. Wishing our editor and reporter all the best for the future! With love from all your friends at the Buxton Advertiser xxxx.”

Derbyshire Times editor James Mitchinson was given editorial oversight of the Advertiser in March last year when he was made group editor of Wilfred Edmunds Ltds/North Notts Newspapers.

Johnston Press has not yet responded to requests for a comment.