A weekly newspaper originally launched 40 years ago is publishing its last edition tomorrow after bosses decided it was “no longer viable.”
Five jobs are set to be lost at the Leigh Times Series in Essex with publisher Tindle Newspapers putting the decision to close the title down to the current economic climate.
The Leigh Times Series was originally launched by Michael Guy Senior in 1983 who ran it for 25 years before selling to Tindle in 2008.
It has at various times included the Leigh & Westcliff Times, the Southend Times, The Canvey & Benfleet Times and the Rayleigh & Eastwood Times.
The Times’ remaining staff members are pictured saying their final goodbyes to the paper’s office in Leigh Broadway last week.
Scott Wood, managing director of Tindle Newspapers Ltd, said: “The economic climate means it is no longer viable to publish.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those that have contributed to the publications over the years, the advertisers, businesses and other organisations who have supported us and the many readers, who each week, have let us into their homes.”
Reporter, photographer and news editor Mark Insull said the closure it marked “the end of an era in local media.”
Wrote Mark: “This is an incredibly sad day for us all here. The Leigh Times has been such a massive part of all of our lives that it is difficult to imagine a world without it.
“It has, for us all, been a privilege to serve this community in the small ways that we have. We hope we leave it, at least slightly, better and stronger than we found it.
“Personally, I have encountered many many amazing people during the last two decades and I would thank you all for your time and for trusting me and the Leigh Times Series, with your stories.
“We have reported many moments of historical importance locally, during my time and since the newspapers were first launched. We have championed many causes over the years and recorded the remarkable changes that have taken place locally, during that time.
“We have always tried our best to report honestly and accurately, both the happiest stories and those that have been less easy to tell. In reporting these things, we have often been given a front row seat at the most fantastic and incredible events taking place locally.
“All I can say now is, thank you, it’s been a privilege.
“We would wish everybody, great things for the future and hope very much that this community will keep going from strength to strength.
“From all at the Leigh Times Series, goodbye and thank you.”