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Four new jobs created as network launches three more websites

meA network of hyperlocal news websites is continuing to expand with the launch of three new titles this week.

Nub News is aiming to recruit up to 200 journalists over the next three years with the objective of launching 700 news websites in towns and cities which it views as under-reported.

Its latest hires include former Bath Chronicle news editor Sam Petherick, left, who will be taking charge of a new Nub News platform in Richmond, South West London.

Sam is one of four new journalists joining the Nub News operation which is also launching new sites in Crewe and Biddulph, Staffordshire.

Overseeing the new Crewe site will be Gwyn Griffiths, who has more than three decades’ experience in the local press including spells at the Stoke Sentinel and Wrexham daily The Leader, while Jack Lenton, who began his career at the Chronicle Series in Cheshire, will be heading up the news operation in Biddulph.

Also joining the team is Cameron Eyles, right, who Cameron Eyleswill be reporting for the existing Nub News title in Teddington, South West London. Cameron recently gained an NCTJ diploma in multimedia journalism at News Associates in Twickenham.

The new launches mean there are now 40 Nub News sites across towns in the UK.

Founder Karl Hancock claims the network is now “on track to become the largest online local newspaper brand in the UK.”

He said: “There’s a strong demand for hyper-local news without intrusive advertising and pop-up surveys. We encourage our journalists to delve into the community and talk to the people that really matter.

“We want to go back to how journalism was 25 years ago. We meet the people that care about their town like councillors, the chamber, the sports teams, shops and businesses. You can read about Nub News’ 10 principles here: nub.news

“Our Teddington site has been a huge success after just a couple of months. We are already reaching 50pc weekly penetration and have secured a sponsor in record time.

“South West London is under-served when it comes to local news. I’m hugely excited that Sam Petherick, the ex-News Editor of the Bath Chronicle, has decided to join our team to cover Richmond.

Added Karl:  “We are seeing a record number of visitors to our sites so I see no need in furloughing staff. Since Nub News started, more than two million people have visited Nub News.

“Our target is to be in 100 towns by the end of the year and be in 700 within two to three years.”