A football reporter has left a regional daily for “personal reasons” after a year in his role.

Benjy Nurick has announced his departure from the Southern Daily Echo, where he has covered Southampton FC since last spring.

During his time there, Benjy was involved with the launch of Saintsplus, digital-only title run by the Echo offering exclusive content about the club to paying subscribers.

His announcement comes just weeks after the Southampton-based daily confirmed it would be retaining two reporters to cover the team following their relegation from the Premier League.

Benjy’s colleague Alfie House will now be joined in that task by new recruit George Rees-Julian.

Benjy, pictured, posted on Twitter: “Not the news you’re all waiting for but dropping in to share that my time covering #SaintFC has come to an end.

Over a challenging period, it’s been a job that I’ve loved, learning about the Southampton community through the club, visiting the stadiums I dreamed of as a kid.

“But for a variety of personal reasons it’s just no longer the right fit. Not entirely sure what’s next but I’m excited to do lots of exploring and make lots of new mistakes.”

“The Echo’s coverage won’t be changing and I’m thrilled that my departure will allow for another talented journalist to get the chance they deserve. I’m sure you all won’t be disappointed.”

George joins the Echo after training at Southampton’s Solent University and has also covered women’s football as a freelance for South African newspaper City Press.

He said: “Having spent the last three years living in Southampton I’m really excited to now be covering the club.”