An independent online news title is to mark its first year of publication by inviting readers and subscribers to help shape its future development.

The Great Central Gazette was launched as a not-for-profit title in March 2023 by journalists Rhys Everquill, Emma Guy and Megan Lupton.

It initially published a fortnightly newsletter but went weekly in December 2023.

A combination of grants, membership contributions, crowdfunding and website services has enabled the team to generate more than £10,000 in income over the past 12 months.

Great Central gazette co-founders Emma Guy and Rhys Everquill.

Now the Gazette is to celebrate one year of publishing at an anniversary event on 14 March at Soft Touch Arts in Leicester which will include its AGM.

At the meeting, subscribing members will steer the Gazette’s editorial direction and vote on proposals put forward by the team and other members.

Co-founder Megan Lupton said: “After a busy year full of hard work – and lots of coffee – we cannot wait to celebrate with our members and guests.

“We have witnessed first-hand the positive impact that The Gazette has had on Leicester’s communities. We cannot wait to reflect on the many highs of the last year”.

The Gazette, which is set up as a co-operative, is offering readers the chance to become members for just 90p per month for the first year iun the run-up to the AGM.

More information about the AGM can be found here.