A free weekly has relaunched itself as a paid-for newspaper in a move it says will make it a “stronger voice for the community”.

The News Post Leader, which covers South-East Northumberland, has announced it will no longer be delivered for free across its patch but is now available for £1.

The change came into effect at the JPIMedia-owned weekly, which was established in 1874, last Friday.

Last year it was one of eight JPIMedia sister titles to have its publication temporarily suspended due to the economic impact of coronavirus.

A piece announcing the relaunch on the News Post Leader’s website reads: “As the News Post Leader enters a new, exciting chapter in its long history, we have been overwhelmed by messages of support.

“All sections of our communities have been sending their good-luck letters, from sport and politics to business and health.

“We are truly grateful for the backing and hope we can do you all proud with our bigger, bolder, new-look New Post Leader.

“Your favourite local newspaper is being reborn from Friday, April 30 – a stronger voice for the community we have been proud to serve since 1874.

“The paper will no longer be delivered free but will be widely available to buy for just £1.”

Among those to offer messages of support have been Wansbeck MP Ian Lavery and Blyth Valley MP Ian Levy.

Mr Lavery said: “Good luck to the News Post Leader and all those who work there as the paper takes this next step into their future.

“The paper has always been a valuable source of local news keeping the public informed here in South-East Northumberland and I wish them all the best going forward.”

Mr Levy added: “The News Post Leader is an institution in south-east Northumberland and has been for such a long time.

“Since I was elected in December 2019 it has provided me with a great opportunity to regularly communicate with constituents.

“It is an excellent local publication full of the latest news for Blyth Valley and surrounding areas. I wish the Leader every success and will be buying a copy every week.”