A former regional journalist has been promoted to an editor role with PA.

Laura Paterson has been appointed Scotland editor at PA Media, the national news agency for the UK and Ireland.

Laura, pictured, began her career on Glasgow weekly The Digger in 2009 and has also worked for Aberdeen-based daily the Press & Journal, Central Scotland News Agency, the Dumbarton and Vale of Leven Reporter and Glasgow’s Sunday Mail.

She joined PA as a reporter in 2016, later assuming the role of political reporter before taking on news editor duties within its Scottish editorial team.

Laura said: “It is a real honour to be appointed Scotland Editor for PA Media and I look forward to continuing to work with our great team of talented reporters and photographers to build on our excellent service.

“With the ongoing coronavirus crisis, as well as the upcoming Brexit transition period deadline and a Holyrood election on the horizon next year, we anticipate a busy news agenda and will continue to provide fast and accurate coverage.”

She will report to PA editor-in-chief Pete Clifton in her new role, which is based in Glasgow.

Pete said: “Laura has excelled herself as a PA reporter and news editor over the past four years and has an impressive range of experience at various Scottish publications.

“Her deep understanding of our customers’ needs will be invaluable as we continue to grow PA’s service in Scotland.”