An editor who launched a public appeal for work last month is returning to regional newspapers to head up five weeklies.

Jon Stokoe has announced his appointment as editor of Newsquest’s Yorkshire weeklies and will take charge of the Craven Herald, Ilkley Gazette, Keighley News, Ryedale Gazette & Herald and Wharfedale Observer.

HTFP reported last month how Jon, pictured, had launched an online appeal to find a new job after revealing his two-year spell in charge of regional interest title The Dalesman was set to come to an end on 24 September.

He will take up his new role with Newsquest on 11 October.

Jon told HTFP: “Local newspapers in print and online are still so important to the communities they serve.

“I know all five of these newspapers have long been respected by their readers which is why I am delighted to have been given this chance to become editor.

“With talented staff with years and years of experience between them, I can’t wait to get started and to complement their sterling work.

“I’ve been lucky to have had numerous offers of work over the past few weeks. As a proud journalist, and a proud Yorkshireman, it’s safe to say I am over the moon to grasp this opportunity in my profession, in Yorkshire.”

Jon began his career in 1995 and went on to edit the Whitby Gazette.

He later set up his own company, Stokoe Media, after being made redundant from the Gazette eight years ago

Jon has also previously worked full-time as a sub-editor for Reach plc’s newspapers in Lincolnshire.

Dan Clare has recently been unveiled as his successor at The Dalesman.