A city news website’s editor has reiterated the title’s commitment to its patch as it celebrates six years in business.

Belfast Live has marked the milestone by recording 1.2 million total unique visitors on the site in January.

The site was launched in 2015 as the first ‘Live’ news brand launch by Reach plc’s forerunner Trinity Mirror.

The ‘Live’ brand has since been introduced by Reach to regional news titles across Great Britain and and Ireland.

Belfast Live editor Ryan Smith, pictured, said: “Time really does fly and it’s hard to remember a time when Belfast Live wasn’t an important part of the daily lives of people across Belfast and Northern Ireland.

“As a team we’re all extremely passionate about what we do but that is only possible thanks to our readers who show their trust in us every day.

“During these uncertain times we want to be people’s first choice when it comes to everything from a big breaking story, to the latest news from their street.

“Thanks to all of our readers for the support over the past six years – we’re committed to being a voice that accurately reflects Northern Ireland in 2021 and the years to come.”

Cherith Andrews, group sales director for Reach in Northern Ireland, added: “From launch, Belfast Live has proved popular among advertisers as much as readers and I believe this is down to the collective effort editorially and commercially to build an audience and a brand that, in just six years, readers and advertisers alike value and like to do business with.

“I’m proud of how the team, no matter the size and nature of the business or budget, work together with our brand partners to produce the most effective and engaging solutions and campaigns.”