A new editor has vowed to continue a regional news website’s “dazzling growth” after being promoted to the top job there.

Alex Richards has been unveiled as the new site editor of Devon Live, after his predecessor Richard Booth left to become assistant news editor at The Independent.

Alex, pictured, began his career in 2015 as a trainee digital reporter on the site’s sister newspaper the Exeter Express & Echo, now owned by Reach plc.

The Cardiff University graduate was appointed deputy head of content when Devon Live was launched in 2017. He was subsequently promoted to head of content in 2019.

Alex told HTFP: “It’s a true privilege to be stepping into the role of site editor for Devon Live.

“It’s a fantastic new challenge and, with the incredible talent of my colleagues, we will continue Devon Live’s dazzling growth.

“It was always going to be an unusual way of shifting roles, but the incredible network of communication we’ve created under lockdown has ensured that informative and hard-hitting journalism remains at the forefront at a time when it’s needed most.

“I also speak for everyone in wishing Devon Live’s previous editor, Rich Booth, all the best in his new role at a national title.”