An editor has left an independent publisher after more than 40 years of service.

Bryan Armstrong had edited DNG Media titles since 1994, but has now bowed out to focus on freelance media work and photojournalism.

Bryan began at DNG – which publishes the Annandale Observer, Dumfries Courier, Annandale Herald and Moffat News – as a compositor in the early 1970s.

He was later a photographer, reporter and assistant editor before being appointed editor.

From left: Outgoing DNG editor Bryan Armstrong, managing director Peter Laidlaw and new editor Fiona Reid

Said Bryan: “It has been a privilege meeting so many people, sometimes in difficult circumstances, who have shared their stories with us.

“We may be far from the big cities, but the countryside and Solway coast makes this a very attractive region to live and work, although raises many particular issues.”

Fiona Reid, who has been with the company since 2000 and has been news editor for the last nine years, has been promoted to editor of the papers.

She said: “Bryan has trained me well over the last two decades and he will be missed by us all in the newsroom. I share his passion and enthusiasm for local news, accuracy and independent reporting, and will carry forward those principles.

“I’m especially proud to be the company’s first female editor.”

Paying tribute to his successor, Bryan added: “She knows our readers well and the issues that concern them. As part of the community she shares their interests and aspirations and I’m sure will bring her own insightful touch to the titles.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me, the many contributors and, in particular, our army of readers — many whom were always ready to offer valuable feedback which was greatly appreciated.”

DNG Media managing director Peter Laidlaw said: “I would like to thank Bryan for all his hard work and editorial stewardship. He has always had a passion for balanced, independent reporting which has been at the bedrock of the principles for which our newspapers stand.

“He has also trained and supported many young journalists who I’m sure learned a lot from his experience at the start of their careers which led them into various areas of the media.

“I congratulate Fiona on her appointment and I am sure she will bring enthusiasm and passion to the role.”