A regional newspaper owner has bought a children’s magazine publisher in its latest acquisition.

The Claverley Group, which owns the Midland News Association, has announced a deal to buy Surrey-based Signature Publishing.

Signature boasts a portfolio of 19 children’s magazines, including Dinosaur Action, Lego Friends and Polly Pocket.

Signature will continue to operate from its current base in Surrey, with all staff being retained.

The acquisition is the fourth made by the group since 2018 which have also included the purchase of another children’s magazine publisher, Kennedy Publishing.

Claverley Group chief executive Phil Inman, pictured, said: “We are delighted to have concluded the acquisition of Signature Publishing.

“The business benefits from a portfolio of first class magazines and a loyal reader base.

“We look forward to working with the current team to support further growth and development.”

Signature’s managing director Danny Morris added: “We are incredibly proud to have achieved so much with the Signature team since we launched the business back in 2005.

“This success and growth is set to continue under the Claverley Group, pooling together the amazing talent and impressive portfolios of two of the fastest growing children’s magazine publishers, unlocking even greater opportunities for the future.”

The acquisition was completed on Friday, with the announcement to staff being made yesterday.