A regional political journalist’s new role with a daily newspaper has been revealed following his departure from a rival title.

The Belfast Telegraph has unveiled Sam McBride as Northern Ireland editor for its publisher Mediahuis after he left the Belfast News Letter.

Sam, pictured, will write on a wide range of issues for the Bel Tel and will also contribute to Mediahuis titles in the Republic of Ireland, including the Sunday Independent.

He will initially work on a part-time basis and will assume a full-time role early next year.

Sam said: “I started my career at the Belfast Telegraph in 2006 and I am delighted to be coming back to be joining in the role of Northern Ireland editor.

“I am particularly excited about the fact that this is a company now that is investing in journalism — they are bringing in lots of new journalists, they are putting money to where their words have been, and they are showing they want to look to where journalism is and where Northern Ireland is in 10 and 20 years’ time.”

Edward McCann, deputy publisher at Mediahuis Ireland, added: “We are delighted that Sam is joining the team.

“Mediahuis prides itself on quality journalism and Sam will bring that in spades. He will bring a fresh perspective and great stories to our titles and add strength in depth to a fantastic team of writers.”