A group which promotes diversity in journalism at a regional publisher has ceased operating in protest at Nigel Farage’s appointment as a columnist at one of its titles.

Reach Culture, which promotes the work of staff from different minority backgrounds at Reach plc, has announced the move after the former Brexit Party leader was hired by recently-launched American title Daily Express US.

The group also offers training sessions for both regional and national journalists aimed at improving reporting on different communities.

In an email to staff at the publisher this morning, the Reach Culture committee said it had “no choice but to take this firm stance” on the grounds that Mr Farage’s appointment “runs counter to the principles on which Reach Culture was founded”.

The message, which has been seen by HTFP, states: “Due to the recent appointment of Nigel Farage on the Express US, Reach Culture committee has decided to halt all Reach Culture events and activity with immediate effect.

“Unfortunately, the appointment of Mr Farage runs counter to the principles on which Reach Culture was founded and we feel we have no choice but to take this firm stance.

“In the meantime, should any member need us please do reach out via this email address.”

The Express US unveiled Mr Farage as its new “star columnist and analyst” last week, pledging that he will “offer his wisdom on all things US politics, including upcoming twists and turns in the 2024 presidential election”.

Mr Farage, pictured, told the website: “The Express and I go back and a very long way.

“In particular, it’s that amazing moment in 2014 when the Express was the first national newspaper to come out and say we should leave the European Union, and gave me and UKIP its full backing in that European election that year that we won.

“It’s a good relationship that goes back a very, very long way.

“I think English titles are very trusted in America, far more than American titles are trusted, and I think you’ve got a great, historic brand name, and that counts for something in America.”

HTFP has approached Reach for further comment on Reach Culture’s decision.