An independent publisher has become the first local newspaper group to implement a new pay-as-you-go service for readers of its websites.

Baylis Media – publisher of the Maidenhead Advertiser, Slough Express, and Windsor Express – has launched the new scheme, which will see people pay 20p to read an individual article on its sites.

Anyone who spends 60p over the course of a week, reading three articles, will be able to read all the sites for free for the rest of that week.

HTFP reported last month how digital-only operation Cornwall Reports had introduced the same paywall system, which is run by Agate Systems Limited.

Agate allows users to pay on a per-article basis instead of via a subscription, and has been set up to help publishers monetise online content.

Baylis Media chief executive Jeremy Spooner, pictured, said: “Our readers want high-quality news focused on what matters most to them locally.

“By offering the opportunity to pay for premium articles, not only will our readers be helping to sustain high-quality journalism, they can also rest assured that 80 per cent of any profits will be ploughed back into local charity initiatives.

“By securing a fair price for quality news, we can focus on the news our readers want to hear about – such as weekly news for villages and businesses, in-depth sport interviews, extended council meeting news, Q&As with key figures, and columns and opinion pieces.”

Dominic Young, chief executive of Agate, added: “We’re delighted that Baylis Media has signed up with Agate to offer customers more flexibility with an option to pay per article.

“In our view, it’s vital that quality journalism can be produced in return for a fair price, and we created Agate so customers can pay effortlessly to do so.”