The co-founder of a regional news website has left her role for a new investigative journalism job.

Natalie Bloomer, who co-founded Northamptonshire title NN Journal last year, has announced she has joined the Bureau of Investigative Journalism’s Bureau Local unit.

Natalie, picutred, said she had decided to leave the Journal due to her “personal circumstances” and started work at the Bureau ocal on Tuesday.

Sarah Ward, the Journal’s other co-founder,  will now take sole charge of its operation.

In a farewell note to readers, Natalie said: “Due to my personal circumstances, it is time for me to move on, but I want to thank all of our readers and sources for engaging with my articles and trusting me with your stories.

“When Sarah and I started this publication there were many people who thought we wouldn’t survive and I know there were some in power who didn’t take us seriously.

“Almost two years on, the Journal is still here and continuing to bring you important and impactful stories from across the county.

“I’m incredibly proud of everything we have achieved in that time. I’m certain that with Sarah at the helm NN Journal will keep improving and I look forward to seeing what comes next.”

Speaking to HTFP, she added: “I’m so proud of what we achived at NN Journal and I’m excited to see it continue to grow with Sarah at the helm.

“I have collaborated on a number of Bureau Local projects over the years and have always admired the work the team produces. I’m thrilled to be joining them and to be given the opportunity to dig into the issues that matter most to local communities.”

Bureau Local editor Emily Wilson welcomed Natalie to her team in a post on Twitter.

Emily wrote: “She’s been a brilliant collaborator with the Bureau Local for years, has great story instincts and cares passionately about improving information for communities.”

Tweeting her own tribute, Sarah wrote: “Sad that my NN Journal co-founder and mate Natalie is leaving.

“It’s been great working with her and writing stories about Northamptonshire that would have probably gone untold.”