An editor has returned to frontline journalism after taking on two neighbouring titles whose editorships have been merged.

Abigail Rabbett has been unveiled as the new editor of National World sister websites Derby World and Nottingham World, which both had dedicated journalists running the titles until recently.

The move marks a return to the editor’s chair for Abigail, who in 2021 became Reach plc’s youngest ever editor aged 23 when she was appointed to oversee Norfolk Live and Suffolk Live.

She subsequently took on Cambridgeshire Live, digital sister title to regional daily the Cambridge News, but left Reach just over a year ago to go travelling.

Both Derby World and Nottingham World had been without editors since August, when Michael Broomhead and Caroline Barry respectively left their roles.

Caroline had officially edited the Nottingham title, while Michael was the sole dedicated member of editorial staff in Derby.

Abigail, pictured, told HTFP: “I’m very excited about my appointment as editor of Nottingham World and Derby World and to get back to doing what I love most – delivering news.

“This is a brilliant opportunity to add some creative flair to two websites with great potential.

“I can’t wait to bring to life the stories of the people, places, and history of two exceedingly interesting patches in a digital-first way.”

Abigail began her career in May 2017 as a ‘What’s On’ writer in Cambridge, later serving as Reach’s audience editor for Cambridgeshire, Essex Live, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.

Her new appointment comes after she joined National World in a group-wide customer loyalty editor role in May.

Derby World and Nottingham World were both launched as part of an expansion by National World into East Midlands cities traditionally served by Reach plc dailies.

A slated third title, Leicester World, is yet to materialise.