A former regional publishing chief has joined the trade body for hyperlocal news titles.

Ed Walker’s project Blog Preston has joined the Independent Community News Network.

Ed held a number of senior group-wide roles at Reach plc before leaving the business last year and had run Blog Preston as an independent side project since 2009, currently serving as its co-editor.

He is also lead editor (North) for The Lead which has recently launched email newsetters in four Northern towns with three more in the pipeline.

In a post on the Blog Preston website, Ed, pictured, said: “Being a part of the ICNN network means we’re able to share what we’ve learned in 15 years but also get fresh ideas and new approaches we can look to utilise on Blog Preston too.

“Journalism and media never stands still, and it’s great to see ICNN evolving and taking on new members as independent local publishing continues to flourish in the UK.”

ICNN director Emma Meese added: “We’re delighted to welcome Blog Preston to our community of more than 100 high quality independent publishers from across the UK.

“ICNN offers support to independent titles, a unified voice and a sense of community. Amid ongoing concerns about the future of the industry, it is encouraging to see continued growth of the independent sector and great titles like Blog Preston.”