A weekly newspaper has unveiled a new look after making the switch from broadsheet to compact size.

The launch publication of the smaller sized West Cumberland Times & Star carried 120 pages plus a 40-page supplement.

Serving Workington, Maryport and Cockermouth, the three-edition newspaper had been in broadsheet format since amalgamated titles created the Times & Star in 1967.

The format change was also accompanied by a cover price increase from 80p to 90p, but editor Steve Johnston says the price would have gone up in January anyway if the paper had remained a broadsheet.

The new-look Times & Star includes a 40-page supplement

“The change is designed to provide ease of handling and ease of reading. Many people have told us that we should have done it long before now,” said Steve.

“Many people have told us that we should have done it long before now. But we have taken our time because we know how important it is to maintain the editorial quality and sense of authority that comes from being a traditional newspaper.

“So we offer this note of reassurance to regular readers; our new look does not mean that the Times & Star has changed its view on what makes local news.

“We remain committed to delivering thoroughly researched local news and information.

“We will be carrying the same high volume of stories but presented in a less cluttered way.”

The switch follows extensive research and successful trials among readers and advertisers.

Steve added that the newspaper would remain true to its slogan of Fighting for our Community.

“We will have the same commitment to campaigning on behalf of our readers, and will be served by a team of reporters who live and work at the heart of the community,” he added.

“We will remain at the forefront of local news, charting our area’s ups and downs, and bringing you all your favourite features, photographs and sports coverage.”