A city news site has poached a journalist from a rival daily to become its first ever dedicated political reporter.

Belfast Live has announced the appointment of Brendan Hughes to the role, which has been created as the site launches a bid to cover the topic “properly”.

Brendan, pictured, was previously at Belfast-based daily the Irish News.

Chris Sherrard, audience and content director at Belfast Live owner Reach Ireland, explained the move.

He said: “There is a lot happening in the world of politics in Northern Ireland, from Brexit and all of its implications to the latest machinations at Stormont.

“I’ve always said that Belfast Live would only cover a topic if we’re going to cover it properly and we’re now in a position to do so with politics.

“Brendan is someone whose journalism I have admired from afar for some time so I’m delighted that he is now part of our team.

“He is someone who will go after a story on the readers’ behalf with tenacity and professionalism and I’m excited to see that play out on Belfast Live as we look to cement our position as the leading commercial news site in Northern Ireland.”

Brendan added: “I am delighted to join the Belfast Live team as their first dedicated political reporter.

“The coronavirus pandemic and the outworkings of Brexit have highlighted how politics plays a pivotal role in all our lives.

“People in Northern Ireland understand that more than most, and so are rightly engaged with what is happening up on the hill at Stormont.

“It is encouraging to see a news platform respond to this appetite for more political news, whether it be debates at Westminster or decisions at local council level.

“I am very excited about working with this passionate news team on breaking news, in-depth interviews and exclusive stories to enhance Belfast Live as a place for politics.”