A new editor has been unveiled at a regional daily dubbed the ‘National of the North’ by its publisher.

The Manchester Evening News has promoted its current senior editor Sarah Lester to the post after playing a “key role” in the title’s digital development.

In her expanded role, she will be responsible for the brand development of the MEN across print and online, in addition to her existing duties with its website.

Sarah, pictured, succeeds Darren Thwaites who will remain editor-in-chief of the title in his role as marketplace publisher for  Reach plc’s northern titles.

Sarah, who joined the MEN in 1997, said: “When I was a teenager I dreamed of being a journalist at the Manchester Evening News – it’s hard to believe that I’m now editor of this incredible brand. It means a great deal.

“As anyone who loves Manchester knows, it’s a remarkable place with a remarkable spirit.

“The last few years have tested our resilience – the Manchester Arena bombing, the pandemic and now the cost of living crisis. Whatever we face we will be with Greater Manchester telling the stories that matter and championing our region.

“I am very fortunate to have such a talented team of journalists who have helped the Manchester Evening News become what it is today and I’m looking forward to working with them to see what we can do next.”

According to Ipsos Iris data provided by Reach, the MEN reaches more adults in the UK than any other regional news brand online.

The data shows the MEN reaches 58pc of the population in Manchester, 60pc in Oldham, 63pc in Rochdale and 65pc of people in Salford.

David Higgerson, Reach deputy editor-in-chief for audience and customer, said: “Under Sarah’s leadership the MEN has not only grown to be one of the biggest news brands in the UK, but also one of the most engaged with its local communities online too.

“The MEN is read by more than half of Greater Manchester every month, with most of those readers visiting at least once a week too.

“The launch of the MEN’s local ‘My’ brands for every borough within Greater Manchester has further strengthened the brand’s connection with communities across the city.

“It is well positioned to cement its position as the National of the North under Sarah’s leadership.”