An editor has returned from maternity leave to take up her new role in charge of four weekly newspapers.

As reported by HTFP in February, Stephanie Preece was appointed editor of Newsquest’s Stourbridge division, which includes the Stourbridge, Halesowen & Dudley News, Bromsgrove & Droitwich Advertiser, the Kidderminster Shuttle and Redditch Advertiser.

At the time of the appointment she was on maternity leave, but Stephanie,  who was previously the head of content for the Worcester News, Malvern Gazette and Evesham Journal, is now set to take up her new post on 23 July.

The Stourbridge division was previously run by Midlands South and Gloucestershire regional editor Peter John, before his role was made redundant.

Stephanie, pictured, said: “I’m delighted to be joining the team at Stourbridge.

“I am already familiar with the great work that they do covering the north of Worcestershire and I can’t wait to join them in this new role.”

Newsquest editorial director Toby Granville said: “I had the pleasure of working with Stephanie at the Oxford Mail some years ago — and even then it was clear to me she had editor potential.

“She’s full of energy and embraces the challenging but exciting changes happening in our industry and I’m looking forward to seeing her play a big part in Stourbridge’s future.”