A journalist who worked his way up from office boy to director of an independent weekly has died aged 78.

Tributes have been paid to Bill Mossop, who spent 43 years with the Cumberland & Westmorland Herald

Bill, pictured, held roles including office boy, reporter, chief reporter, company secretary with the Penrith-based weekly, which he had joined in 1961.

He was appointed managing director in 1986 and remained a non-executive director until 2019.

Away from journalism, Bill was a keen cricketer who once represented Cumberland in Minor Counties competitions.

In a statement, Penrith Cricket Club said: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Bill Mossop.

“Bill was an opening bowler who was part of the 1st X1 in the late 70s and early 80s. He relied on prodigious in-swing and unnerving accuracy to outwit batsmen.

“Bill was rewarded for his consistency by being selected to play Minor Counties cricket for Cumberland v Durham at Tynefield Park.

“Bill also wrote the book ‘Journey Through Time’ that chronicled the history of Penrith Cricket Club to celebrate the clubs 150th anniversary in 2016.

“A lovely man, quiet, private and dedicated.”