A former Press Association training boss who launched his own business last week has landed a major deal with publisher Trinity Mirror.

Tony Johnston, left, will help TM revamp its in-house journalism qualification to reflect recent changes in its digital-first newsrooms.

The move marks a notable coup for former Teesside Gazette journalist Tony who launched his new business Engage Media Training last week.

He left The Press Association, where he had been head of its training business for almost 11 years, in June 2016.

Trinity Mirror has run its own in-house journalism qualification, called the Trinity Mirror certificate of journalism, for around 20 years.

Said Tony: “We are delighted to be working with Trinity Mirror in several key areas including developing a range of up-to-date qualifications that reflect the dramatic changes in their digital newsrooms.

“Trinity Mirror has made enormous progress in developing outstanding digital brands and we are very pleased to be able to support their teams in building their skills and knowledge further.

“Our business provides flexible, blended learning solutions to a range of clients in both traditional and non-traditional publishing businesses.”

Neil Benson, editorial director regionals at Trinity Mirror, added: “Our newsrooms will continue to evolve rapidly, so it’s essential we have a training plan and a set of qualifications that support the modern journalist’s skill set.

“We have built an excellent relationship with Tony over many years and I am delighted we will be working together on this key area.”