A regional daily has launched a new campaign to promote the city it serves amid fears that it will be ‘talked down’ in the wake of Brexit.

The South Wales Argus has announced its ‘We’re Backing Newport’ bid, which aims to be positive about the city and explain why it’s a “great place to live”.

Over the coming weeks, the Argus will be publishing articles written by people aiming to help Newport achieve its potential, and highlighting some of the city’s success stories in the worlds of business, sport and in the local community.

The campaign, backed by Newport City Council and the University of South Wales,  went live on Monday with a poster front page headlined ‘It’s time to back our city.’

In an editorial, Argus editor Kevin Ward wrote: “Negativity breeds negativity – and we think it’s time to change that, hence the We’re Backing Newport campaign.

“It is a city I’ve been proud to call my home for nearly 30 years. I am passionate about this city. And I genuinely believe there has never been a better time to live, work and do business in Newport.

“This is truly a city on the rise. Newport is packed with potential and is being transformed before our eyes. There is plenty of uncertainty in the economy following the result of the EU referendum. As a city, Newport voted for Brexit.

“There is a real danger that the economy will be talked down in the continuing debate following the referendum. So today we start the process of talking Newport up.”

Kevin added: “Like any other employer in the city, the Argus wants to see Newport flourish. It is good for us, good for our staff, and good for the tens of thousands of people who read the Argus in print and online every day.

“A successful and thriving Newport is also good for the surrounding area of greater Gwent. And if we – and those supporting our campaign – do not shout about the city, then who will?

“Newport has to stand up for itself and not wait for others to do so. It is our job to ensure our city fulfils its potential.”

The Argus launch coincided with a similar campaign launched by the Cambridge News to promote its patch in the wake of the Brexit vote, which 74pc of the city’s residents opposed.