A regional daily’s head of digital is leaving his role to take up a new job with the BBC.

Jim Scott has announced his departure from the Northern Echo to join the BBC News North East and Cumbria team.

Jim, pictured, joined the Darlington-based Echo five years ago and has also served in posts including senior reporter and digital content editor.

He revealed his new role in a series of posts on Twitter.

Jim wrote: “After a fab few years, I am leaving the Northern Echo/Newsquest to take on a new challenge. It’s been an honour and privilege to have seen its transformation into a true digital newsroom over the years.

“I have loved my time and have got to work with some absolutely brilliant and talented people.

“But I’m over the moon to say that I’ll be joining the BBC News North East and Cumbria team next month. I can’t wait to get stuck in.”

Speaking to HTFP, he added: “It’s been an absolute honour to hold this position, leading the newsroom through some of the biggest stories, not just in the North-East but nationally over the years.

“Starting as a trainee reporter in North Yorkshire, climbing the ranks in just a few years, it is testament to the industry’s changing attitudes in giving younger people the chance to progress.

“I’ve been delighted to work at the Northern Echo, which continues to campaign for what is right, but I’m really looking forward to moving onto my next challenge as a journalist at the BBC.”

Among those to pay tribute to Jim for his work at the Echo has been Toby Granville, Newsquest’s editorial director.

Toby posted on Twitter: “Sorry to see this news. Good luck and hope our paths cross again sometime in the future.”