Regional publisher Local World has hailed a 59pc year-on-year incease in its web audience last month claiming it is among the fastest in the industry.

Unique visitors to LW websites grew from 9.16m in January to 13 to 16.95m last month.

The increase, which follows a 94.1pc year-on-year rise in December, follows the closure of the former thisis network of local sites and their relaunch under newspaper branding.

Tim Rowell, executive product director said: “It is extremely gratifying to see that our audience growth is continuing in such a sustained and consistently striking manner. The growth is a direct result of insightful work by our editorial teams to enhance their publishing practices and to improve the quality of digital content across the board.

“This work has been supported by a rapid digital development programme that has included the closure of the former Thisis network and the re-launch of over 70 local title websites.

“The work continues at pace and many exciting innovations will come from Local World through 2014 to maintain momentum and capitalise fully on the commercial opportunity that this audience brings.”