Two local newspaper publishers are in discussions over plans to create a joint advertising platform across their combined patch.

NWN Media, based in Mold, and Hampshire-based Tindle Newspapers say they have a “significant combined footprint” in the country which could offer “new options” for advertisers.

Now they are exploring proposals for joint promotional activities and advertising sales across the whole of Wales.

NWN Media are the publishers of the Leader newspaper in Wrexham and a string of sister weeklies in the North Wales area. Tindle’s Welsh interests include the Tenby Observer, the Brecon and Radnor Express and the Cambrian News in Aberystwyth.

A statement released by the two companeies says the two companies have “traditionally had much in common” and that their titles “already have a significant combined footprint in Wales.”

It says: “The potential of a joint commercial approach in the marketplace could present additional audience growth opportunities for both as well as the possibility of attractive pan-Wales packages for customers.

NWN directors Anthony Moss and Huw Jones and managing director David Faulkner met with Sir Ray TIndle and Wendy Craig to explore the idea.

The meeting was set up by the Weekly Independent Newspapers Association with Newspaper Society director David Newell also giving advice.

NWN Director Anthony Moss said: “We are pleased to be in these very positive discussions with Sir Ray as our companies do share so much in the way we approach our business.

“We remain optimistic that something really positive will emerge which could also offer new options and platforms to our many loyal advertisers in Wales.”

Sir Ray added he was delighted that there “appeared to be such unanimity” in the discusssions.