A long-serving journalist has been promoted to managing editor of the daily newspaper where she works.

The Irish News has announced the appointment of Fiona McGarry to the role after 27 years with the title.

Fiona, pictured, has served as assistant editor at the Belfast-based daily since 2004 and was head of content for five years prior to that.

Editor Noel Doran – who is himself the longest-serving daily editor in the UK regional press – has welcomed Fiona’s appointment.

He said: “Fiona is a hugely respected journalist and I’m delighted that she is taking on a such a crucial role for the paper.”

Fiona has worked in the industry for 38 years.

She began her career with the Belfast Telegraph in 1983, where she worked as a news reporter and health correspondent prior to joining the News in 1994.