Two stalwarts of a regional daily have left the newspaper after a combined 63 years of service.

Gary Longbottom has announced his departure from the Yorkshire Post, which he first joined as a trainee in 1981, while cartoonist Graeme Bandeira has also said farewell after 23 years.

Gary, pictured, celebrated four decades with the Leeds-based Post in November last year.

He covered many big news and sporting events over the years including the Kegworth air disaster and the European adventures of Leeds United, the football team he supports.

His famous subjects have included Pope John Paul II, during a visit to York, and Princess Diana.

Gary announced his departure in a Twitter post on Monday and will now enter “semi-retirement”, while still undertaking some freelance work.

He wrote: “To those that haven’t heard, I have left the Yorkshire Post after 40 years.

“To the thousands I have photographed over the years thanks for making the job a pleasure. To all those who have helped throughout my career a big thanks. The YP has a great team of snappers. Bye.”

Graeme announced his departure on Twitter yesterday.

He wrote: “It’s with a heavy heart that I bid farewell to the Yorkshire Post today after 23 years. I’ll miss a great team and the great times that have helped make me who I am.”

Speaking to HTFP, Graeme added: [I’m] immensely proud to work for such a heavyweight title. A title that can put many nationals on the canvas.

“The level of skill, productivity and drive from staff astounds me. Honoured and humbled to have worked with them all, creating wonderful memories. Onwards and upwards.”

HTFP has approached the Post for a comment.