An editor says he has “never been happier to be away from the corporate world of modern publishing” six months after launching his own independent local news title.

Matt Adams has reflected on his first half a year running the St Albans Times, which he launched in February.

Matt edited the St Albans-based Herts Advertiser for 13 years and was Archant’s group editor for Hertfordshire until December 2022, when he left the business by mutual agreement following its takeover by Newsquest.

The Times is a weekly current affairs magazine, currently published online only as an e-edition, although he is in discussions about a potential print launch

Speaking to HTFP about the first six months in business, he said: “Launching any new media into today’s challenging marketplace was always going to be a daunting prospect, but I was confident that the St Albans Times was offering something different to other publishers competing in the same area.

“I was determined to shy away from the knee-jerk reaction to any breaking news, but instead provide measured and informed coverage of the stories I perceived to be of interest in the marketplace, focusing on in-depth reads which were not restricted by page templates or daily website targets.

“The response from our local audience was immediately overwhelmingly positive, and I am truly grateful for the warm welcome the St Albans Times has received.

“Readership is growing steadily month on month, and we have some very loyal and supportive advertisers who have helped us thrive during the difficult period after launch to whom I will always be grateful.

“I think what we are doing is providing a platform which reflects what regional newspapers used to offer, while remaining current and relevant to today’s readership. Highlights include page after page of photos from local events, lots of local faces, strong opinion writers, funny and informed columnists and reviewers, and stories which are crafted with a real knowledge of what is happening locally through living, working and breathing St Albans district on a daily basis.

“Personally I’ve never been happier to be away from the corporate world of modern publishing and doing what I love in a place I love.”