A weekly newspaper editor and regional daily deputy editor are effectively set to swap places as part of a management restructure.

Newsquest has announced changes to its operation which will see Worcester News deputy editor John Wilson take up the editorship of its weekly newspapers in Gloucestershire and Herefordshire.

The switch will see Michael Purton, who currently edits the Stroud News & Journal, Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard and Gloucestershire Gazette, move to Worcester to become divisional deputy editor for Newsquest Midlands South & Gloucestershire.

John will take on Michael’s old titles, as well as Newsquest’s Herefordshire weeklies, while Michael will be responsible for daily operations within the newsroom for the Worcester News and its associated weekly titles.

John Wilson, left, and Michael Purton

Worcester News editor and Newsquest regional editor Peter John will assume overall editorial responsibility for Midlands South to include Gloucestershire.

In an announcement to staff, the company’s regional managing director Julia Lancett said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the individuals and teams across the business for some outstanding performances in newspaper sales, along with some not insignificant unique browser growth across a number of our websites.

“I am sure you will join me in wishing Michael, John and Peter congratulations on their new appointments.”

The changes will take effect from 25 September.