A former regional editor has spoken of his ‘honour’ and ‘delight’ at being appointed as an ambassador at one of the country’s most popular historic venues.

Chris Lever has taken on the unpaid role at the Piece Hall, having spearheaded the coverage of its transformation from Georgian cloth hall to stunning gig venue while working at the Halifax Courier.

The unique grade 1 listed building, famed for its open-air courtyard, is now an award-winning retail, leisure and events space hosting a world class programme of music, culture and community festivals.

Chris spent more than 30 years on the Courier, working his way up from reporter to editor, before then taking on the position of head of audience for National World’s West Yorkshire titles.

Former Halifax Courier editor, Chris Lever, has been asked to take on a role as ambassador at the Piece Hall in Halifax.

His career in journalism spans 37 years, with earlier spells at the Huddersfield Examiner and Bury Times.

The Calderdale-based journalist, who was recently made redundant following a reorganisation of National World’s weekly titles,  is currently on the look-out for the next big challenge in his career, either in journalism or PR.

He said: “I was absolutely honoured to be asked to become a voluntary ambassador for the Piece Hall.

“As a proud Yorkshireman I have always shouted up for Halifax, and tried to be positive about our town and Calderdale as a whole. I aim to continue doing this in my new role.

“To see what the Piece Hall has now become, a leading tourism destination and a top venue for concerts by big name bands, attracting visitors from all over the world, is just amazing.

“It’s wonderful to see the benefits it is bringing to the town and how it is helping to boost the Calderdale and Yorkshire economy and put this region on the map. Long may that continue.”

Chris, who officially left his role last month following a spell of gardening leave, announced his redundancy from National World on Facebook.

He wrote: “All good things have to finally come to an end – and after 33 amazing years my time at the Halifax Courier is drawing to a close.

“I’m so grateful to have had the chance to spend three decades doing a job I love in my beloved Halifax, reporting and overseeing news gathering across Calderdale and beyond.

“I’ve met so many incredible people and some real characters along the way, had fabulous experiences and worked alongside some wonderful colleagues and contacts, right back from when I joined the Evening Courier in 1990 as Brighouse district reporter.

“I’ve so many happy memories and I clock off with my head held high, a smile and considerably less hair then when I first started.”