Revenues at newspaper publisher Reach plc grew by 4.4pc in the first four months of 2019 compared to the same period last year, according to a company trading update.

The revenue increase, unveiled ahead of today’s annual general meeting, reflects the group’s acquisition of the Daily Express, Daily Star and their Sunday stablemates last year.

Like-for-like figures, excluding the Express & Star titles, show a year-on-year revenue decline of 6.4pc.

However the group says this represents an improvement on the 7.8pc like-for-like fall in the first four months of 2018.

Within the like-for-like figures, print revenuews fell by 7.9pc while digital revenues grew by 8.4pc.

The update stated: “There are a series of digital initiatives underway, which are expected to further accelerate this growth.”

The group said it remained on track to deliver “synergy savings” of at least £20m per annum by 2020, mainly from the integration of the Express & Star titles.

Net debt is down to £22.2m after £20.3m of a £39.7m loan used to help acquire the Express & Star titles was repaid early.

Chief executive Simon Fox commented: “I am pleased with the solid start to the year and the positive improvement in revenue trends.

“Our early term loan repayment demonstrates the continued success ofthe Express & Star acquisition and  the strong cash generation of the Group.”