Archant has sold off seven of its titles as talks continue over the regional publisher’s future.

The company has confirmed the sale of seven specialist magazines in its portfolio to Kent-based Kelsey Media.

The titles sold as part of the deal include Agricultural Trader, Country Smallholding and Your Chickens.

Boating publications Canal Boat and The Tillergraph have also been offloaded, as well as aviation titles Pilot and UKGA.

The move comes after Archant, which was put up for sale by London-based investment firm Rcapital Partners last month, entered exclusive talks with fellow regional publisher Newsquest.

The sale of the seven titles was confirmed to Archant staff by chief executive Lorna Willis.

Lorna, pictured, said: “As we drive forwards and accelerate out of Covid, it’s important all our titles have the best possible opportunity in which to grow and thrive.

“Specialist content is Kelsey’s core business hence this is an excellent fit for these titles which are much loved within their specialist communities. I have no doubt they will go from strength to strength.”

Specialist titles which Kelsey already publish include Classic Car Buyer, Custom Car, Fishing News, Men’s Fitness, Your Horse, Amateur Photographer and Tractor World.

Archant has declined to comment further, and HTFP has also approached Kelsey Media for a comment on the deal.