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Editor returns to regional publisher weeks after revealing departure

Katie French newAn editor has returned to a regional publisher just a matter of weeks after announcing her departure from two of its titles.

Newsquest has unveiled Katie French as its new regional editor for Berkshire & Buckinghamshire, where she will be responsible for the Bucks Free Press, Reading Chronicle, Slough Observer and Bracknell News.

HTFP reported in September how Katie was leaving Newsquest weeklies the Basingstoke Gazette and Andover Advertiser after almost two years in charge to “embark on a new adventure”.

Since then, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire editor Andrew Colley has been unveiled as the new editor of the Oxford Mail, while Kimberley Barber has taken on Katie’s old titles.

Katie said: “I am delighted to be appointed regional editor of Newsquest Buckinghamshire & Berkshire.

“This is an excellent opportunity to lead an award-winning team of talented journalists and oversee a portfolio of highly regarded news brands.

“This position is particularly exciting for me as I was born and raised in Berkshire and I know just how much these iconic titles mean to the communities and towns they serve.”

Katie started her career as a trainee reporter on the Tiverton Gazette in 2014 before moving to MailOnline in 2017.

After a spell working for the nationals in London, Katie returned to the regional press as Newsquest’s head of news in North Hampshire before being appointed the first female editor of the Gazette and the Advertiser.

Newsquest regional managing director Julia Lancett said: “I’m delighted to welcome Katie to the Buckinghamshire & Berkshire business.

“The region has experienced significant success in the past few years, with award-winning campaigns and the local news brands gaining significant recognition across the industry.

“Katie’s experience and leadership will continue this legacy and I very much look forward to working with her.”