AddThis SmartLayers

‘End of an era’ as editor leaves newspaper after three decades in charge

Chris DaggettA regional newspaper is to get its first new editor in nearly three decades as the current holder of the title retires from a 43-year journalism career.

Chris Daggett is leaving the Burnley Express, which he has edited since 1992.

Express news editor John Deehan has been promoted to take charge of his hometown paper as a result of Chris’s retirement.

John, 38, has worked for the JPIMedia-owned Express for 16 years.

Chris, pictured above left, told the Express: “My time as editor of the Burnley Express has been one of great privilege and responsibility.

“It has certainly been something of a rollercoaster ride, but, thankfully, the good times have far outweighed the bad.

“There have been many highlights such as Burnley Football Club’s first Premier League promotion when we worked through the night to produce a souvenir edition of the Midweek Express which hit the streets the morning after Burnley’s play-off victory at Wembley.

“Visits by Her Majesty The Queen and Prince Charles will long live in the memory, as will Burnley’s economic and social renaissance after the dark days of the race riots in 2001.

“Another memorable event was the visit to the House of Commons by the Burnley Express ‘Save our A and E battlebus’.

“I am delighted that John is being given the opportunity to take the brand forward and, as we move into an ever-increasing digital news world, he is certainly the right man for the job.”

John DeehanJohn, pictured right, described his appointment as “an immense honour”.

He said: “I’ve been lucky enough to work with some incredibly talented and supportive colleagues over the years, who have been instrumental in shaping my career.

“None more so than my former news editor, Margaret Parsons, who not only gave me the opportunity to cut my teeth in journalism, but whose numerous tellings off and mentoring lessons helped me develop my writing and reporting skills.

“Local journalism still has a huge role to play at the heart of the communities we serve, and I look forward to upholding the Burnley Express’s proud traditions while continuing to drive the business forward.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to wish Chris all the best for his retirement.

“His departure truly marks the end of an era for the Express, and I know I can speak on behalf of all colleagues, past and present, as well as countless readers from across three decades, when I say ‘thank you’ for your tireless service to the industry and to the town.”