A regional editor is leaving his role to take up a newsdesk post with a national title.

Rich Booth, who edits Reach plc news website Devon Live, has announced he is leaving the company to become assistant news editor at The Independent.

Rich, pictured, will take up his new London-based role later this month.

He has been in charge of Devon Live for just shy of two years, and served as the site’s head of content prior to that.

Posting on Twitter, Rich said: Strange timing, sure, and sad to leave Devon Live but can’t wait to get going at my new role in London. Eventually.

“Loved every minute in Devon news, I started as a digital reporter in a print office and to see what we have achieved – now one of the biggest regional sites in the country – shows the skill of the team around me but also the continued hunger for brave/quality local journalism.

“Will probably have some more to add on my last day but for now, and always, support local journalism. It matters more than ever.”

Rich’s replacement is yet to be announced.

He told HTFP: “I’m delighted to be taking on a new challenge at The Independent. I have loved every second of my time at Devon Live and the Exeter Express & Echo.

“As a digital reporter I have seen a huge shift in the way regional news works and I couldn’t be prouder of how the team around me has adapted.

“Watching Devon Live grow into one of the biggest regional sites in the country is something I am immensely proud of and I have full confidence in the team I leave behind.

“It is no doubt a strange time to be changing jobs but the thought of covering the biggest story of my life at a brilliant publisher is something I can’t wait to get started on. I wish everyone at Reach the best and will forever push the importance of quality local journalism and the vital role it plays.”