An editor has announced his departure from five sister weeklies after 16 months in charge.

Jon Stokoe has revealed he is now looking for a new job after handing in his three-month notice at the Craven Herald, Ilkley Gazette, Keighley News, Ryedale Gazette & Herald and Wharfedale Observer,.

Jon, pictured, joined the Newsquest weeklies in October 2021 after launching a previous public job search following his departure from regional interest title The Dalesman, where he was also editor.

He revealed his forthcoming departure in a post on his LinkedIn page.

Jon wrote: “Some personal news – I’ve handed in my notice as editor of Newsquest’s Yorkshire weeklies’ newspapers.

“Having always had a career in journalism it has been a tough decision to make, particularly as I have nothing lined up.

“Sleepless nights thinking about work, are now sleepless nights worrying whether I can find a new role to pay my bills and look after my family in three months’ time.

“I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive boss in my current role and I’ve been lucky to have such a talented team of journalists – arguably the biggest assets in our business. But there are so many trials and tribulations to being an editor of five newspapers, the publishing industry is tricky enough as it is.

“But I think it is maybe time for a change. Or maybe not. I’m keeping all my options open – I’m just keeping everything crossed that there could be someone out there who thinks I could be the person they are looking for.

“I’m a journalist with getting on for 30 years’ experience in print and digital, lots of experience of leading a team, while picking up related PR/marketing/communications/event management skills along the way.

“So if you need a reliable team player with lots of ideas and enthusiasm – and a vast Yorkshire contacts book – do drop me a message, I’m available.”

Jon began his career in 1995 and went on to edit the Whitby Gazette.

He later set up his own company, Stokoe Media, after being made redundant from the Gazette eight years ago

Jon has also previously worked full-time as a sub-editor for Reach plc’s newspapers in Lincolnshire.