Six local newspapers have been brought under a single title online as part of their publisher’s bid to expand its coverage in the county where they are based.

Reach plc has announced the launch of “app-first” online brand Lanarkshire Live, which continues the publisher’s trend of launching county-wide news websites across the UK.

Stories from the Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser, East Kilbride News, Hamilton Advertiser, Rutherglen Reformer and Wishaw Press will appear on Lanarkshire Live, while the site will also cover areas of the historic county not traditionally served by these titles.

The print titles will retain their own identities on social media following the change.

Digital editor Fraser Wilson told HTFP: “This is a really exciting opportunity for the Lanarkshire titles and not only ensures that we are at the forefront of 21st century journalism, but are protecting our traditional print titles.

“Via the free-to-download app, we can offer a 24/7 live news service to our readers, keeping them up-to-date with our fast paced world, and targeting them directly with the news that matters to them most.

“Not only will we continue to serve the areas that have supported us through generations, we will be able to target other parts of the region we have not traditionally covered in print.

“As well as appealing to a new geographical audience, we are appealing to a new generation of readers, giving quality, relevant journalism to those for whom a newspaper is a dated concept.

“The renewed energy, passion and determination that has been shown by our journalists already is not only encouraging, but very pleasing, and we have ensured a real newsroom buzz whilst working remotely.

“I would encourage anyone in Lanarkshire to get behind the project, download the app now, and help us ensure that we are the number one news source for this vast, historic and proud region.”