A chief photographer with 33 years’ service on a weekly newspaper has been made redundant following its takeover by a regional publisher, while a sub-editor has also taken voluntary redundancy.

David Poucher has announced his departure from the Rotherham Advertiser, where he has worked since 1990, while HTFP understands sub-editor Bob Evans is also leaving.

The departures come after the Advertiser was bought by National World in May. along with its sister titles the Dearne Valley Weekender, Rotherham Record, and lifestyle magazine Chase.

It is understood two reporter roles vacated at the Advertiser prior to the takeover have not been replaced, while a member of the advertising department and support staff from the IT, accounts and production team have also left. The Advertiser will continue to be served by a remaining staff photographer.

The cutbacks come amid the launch of a fresh voluntary redundancy scheme at National World, days after completing a separate round of cuts affecting more than 50 journalists.

A host of experienced and high-profile journalists have already left the business, the latest being award-winning data journalist Harriet Clugston as reported by HTFP yesterday.

David, pictured, announced he had left the company in a Facebook post saying: “Well after 33 years at the Advertiser I have just finished my last shift after being made redundant.

“I have loved every minute of it through thick and thin and hope I have helped a few people along the way.

“It has been an absolute privilege working with all manner of charities and organisations over the years as well as the good people of Rotherham, of whom there are too many to mention.

“Just so sad I couldn’t have said a proper goodbye to you all, but it has all happened so fast.

“The job has given me countless opportunities to do things that most people don’t get the chance of doing, from rubbing shoulders with royalty to regular trips to Wembley covering the mighty Millers, who have become my second team.

“As they say, when one door closes another one opens, so let’s see what the future brings.”

HTFP has approached National World for a comment.