Rachael Wheatley

A former editor has launched her own PR agency after more than a decade working for a zoo.

Rachael Wheatley, pictured left, who edited the Denbighshire Free Press, has founded Gunsmoke Communications with the aim of boosting businesses and leisure attractions in her native North Wales.

The solo move comes after 12 years as media manager of Chester Zoo.

Prior to that she worked for PR agencies across North Wales and the North-West of England, after spending more than a decade in the regional press

Her career began in 1990 at the Free Press aged 16, before moving on to North Wales Newspapers – where she held positions including chief reporter, sub editor, features editor and news editor.

Rachael returned to take charge at the Free Press between 1999 and 2001, where she was one of the country’s youngest editors.

She now holds a diploma in crisis communications from the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, and her new venture will provide services including marketing, crisis management, writing, media training and social media management.

Gunsmoke is named after a yacht rescued by Holyhead RNLI nearly 40 years ago.

Said Rachael: “North Wales is bountiful with businesses, organisations and leisure attractions, all with terrific stories waiting to be told.

“It’s a stand-out destination for tourists, for companies wishing to move or expand here and for those looking to build up their customer base.

“We’re an agency with a very different, invigorating and fresh approach to PR, an approach that will really benefit this great area.”