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Daily launches new ‘premium’ paywall after donation drive

James Mitchinson 2A regional daily has launched an online paywall which will give subscribers exclusive access to “premium articles”.

The Yorkshire Post has announced its new premium access scheme, with subscription packages starting at £8.99 per month.

It comes after the Post launched a donation drive in August, which saw the Leeds-based daily ask online readers to donate a minimum of £5 per month.

Those who subscribed under the scheme saw fewer advertisements on the paper’s website, with those who donated £10 or more per month also being given access to its app.

Three subscription packages are now listed as available on the Post’s site – digital, digital plus and print & digital plus.

The £8.99 digital packages allows readers unlimited access to “premium articles”, 70pc fewer advertisements on the site and interactive puzzles.

The £9.99 digital plus offering also gives subscribers access to the Post’s newspaper edition app, while those signing up to the £30.33 per month print and digital plus package receive newspaper vouchers to collect locally too.

HTFP has approached the Post to ask what constitutes a “premium article”.

In a piece announcing the move, editor James Mitchinson, pictured, wrote: “It is no secret that journalism of the type we undertake comes at a cost that is higher than other types of so-called journalism, and times have changed so much that we too are having to adapt in order to protect your journalism – because that is what it is; yours.

“Which is why today you will see some changes to our website. Quite simply, to protect The Yorkshire Post – and all of the journalistic values it stands for, in order for future generations to get the same benefit from its campaigning voice that you do, I am asking you to contribute by subscribing.

“As more subscribers back us, we will become more able to represent you. After all, this newspaper belongs to the county.

“We are merely fleeting custodians charged with making the Yorkshire Post the best in the country. With your help, we can maintain that special county tradition.”