Hyperlocal editors have shared their hope for more UK Government support after attending a Downing Street reception.

John Baron of West Leeds Dispatch. Pat Gamble of West Bridgford Wire, Dan Ionescu of The Lincolnite and Michael Casey of Your Harlow joined journalists from across the country at Number 10 reception for “local media champions”.

The event was hosted by Lucy Frazer, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, who spoke to the assembled editors and thanked them for their work in keeping their respective communities informed.

During the reception, Michael had a one-to-one conversation with the minister to discuss Harlow and the future of local independent news.

From left: Michael Casey, John Baron and Pat Gamble outside 10 Downing Street

Michael said: “It was an honour to be invited to Downing Street by the minister, to pass through that famous door and discuss the news landscape in Harlow and beyond.

“I wanted to make sure Ms Frazer knew that alongside the “established brands” there were also 300 independent outlets across the country.

“The minister told me she was aware of Harlow through her colleague Robert Halfon MP. She thanked me for my work and said she would continue to support local media.”

Pat Gamble attended along with his local MP Ruth Edwards, who represents Rushcliffe.

He said: “It was an honour to be invited. I have always enjoyed the support of my MP and look to more support from the government.

“I think more and more MPs recognise that it is often the journalists from local independents they are meeting when they are travelling the country.”