A former regional press editor has launched a new lifestyle magazine covering his old patch.

Phil Johnson, who served as group editor for Johnston Press in the South of Scotland until 2016, has produced the first issue of Border Country.

The magazine will be published bi-monthly and is available at selected retailers in the Scottish Borders region, priced at £3.95.

It can also be purchased as a digital download via the magazine’s website.

Phil spent 10 years in production roles at The Scotsman and Scotland on Sunday before moving into regional newspapers and becoming group editor of seven JP weekly titles in the south of Scotland and north Northumberland.

After freelancing and a year spent in PR, he launched his own media company in August 2019.

Phil, 43, said: “I’m really pleased with the first issue and the response so far has been really positive. The Borders is Scotland’s hidden gem, with lots of stories to tell about its people, places, culture, countryside and much more.

“Other neighbouring areas of Scotland ­ East Lothian, Edinburgh and Dumfries and Galloway – have a lifestyle magazine, so the Borders deserves one too.”