A journalist who joined a weekly title as a 17-year-old editorial assistant has been promoted to deputy editor.

Billy Higgins, pictured left, will take on the role at DC Thomson-owned title The Weekly News from Rod Cameron, who retires at the end of the month.

Based in Dundee, The Weekly News has been published since 1855 and is a general-interest newspaper in a magazine style format.

It features a broad range of material with a focus on real-life and human interest stories.

Billy has worked for The Weekly News for the whole of his 30-year career and previous roles have included chief sub-editor and deputy production editor.

As deputy editor, Billy will be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the newspaper.

Said Billy: “I’m delighted to have been made Deputy Editor.  The Weekly News is an established title and I look forward to the many exciting challenges that lie ahead.”

Editor-in-chief Donald Martin added, “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Billy Higgins as Deputy Editor of The Weekly News.  Billy has played an important part in the recent development and redesign of the newspaper and is an integral part of the team.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Rod Cameron for his commitment to The Weekly News and wish him all the best for the future.”