A daily editor has declared he is “absolutely gutted” after being made redundant as his newspaper prepares to switch to weekly publication.

Gloucestershire Echo editor Matt Holmes, left, has revealed he is leaving journalism after 25 years following publisher Trinity Mirror’s decision to take the paper weekly from next month, along with Gloucester sister title The Citizen.

TM confirmed a fortnight ago that there would be a proposed net loss of up to five jobs alongside frequency change, with six of the existing nine Cheltenham-based production roles disappearing and one new one being created.

However, the company has declined to reveal whether Matt’s role is among that number or is part of a separate management restructure.

Announcing his departure on his personal Facebook page, Matt wrote: “Absolutely gutted – Sad day leaving journalism after 25 years. I have been made redundant.

“I have really enjoyed working with some wonderful people. It really is the best job in the world. I’ll be back doing something soon.”

Matt took over the Echo in 2014 after predecessor Kevan Blackadder quit the paper. He had previously served as deputy editor at The Citizen, which he joined in 1996.

He held various roles there from news editor to digital editor, as well as content editor for Gloucestershire Media.

Dozens of friends and colleagues, past and present, took to Matt’s Facebook page to wish him well following his announcement.

Former Citizen editor Spencer Feeney wrote: “Matt, don’t let this define you. There’s more to life than regional newspapers. It was a privilege and a pleasure to work with you at The Citizen.”

Ex-Bath Chronicle editor Lynne Fernquest added: “Sorry to read this Matt Holmes but there’s just as much fun around the corner.”

Trinity Mirror has declined to comment.