Churches could play a key part in supporting the hyperlocal media sector according to a former comms chief.

Peter Crumpler, the Church of England’s former communications director, says a “quiet revolution” is taking place in local journalism with the growth of small independent titles.

Writing in the Church Times, he urges churches and faith groups to build stronger links with the sector.

He says churches should be playing their part in enhancing local democracy and encouraging grass-roots initiatives by supporting such publications.

Wrote Peter, pictured: “A quiet revolution is taking place in local journalism — but churches could be missing out on the opportunity to support and benefit from the fast-moving changes.

“The landscape of local journalism is changing fast. There is ample scope for churches to support these developments, and to play their part in enhancing local democracy and in helping grass-roots initiatives to thrive.  It will be churches’ loss if they ignore the opportunity.”

Peter cited the St Albans Times, which celebrated its 100th weekly edition at the end of December, as an example of a hyperlocal which saw value in working with churches.

“Funded by advertising and donations, the St Albans Times, since its launch in February 2023, has transformed the media scene in and around the cathedral city,” he said.

Times editor Matt Adams, who launched the title after leaving Archant, said: “Churches and other faith groups are active community organisations with roots deep into our local area.

“We see building links with them as a key part of our news-gathering.”

Wendy Robertson, editor of The Bridge, in Berwick-upon-Tweed, added: “Churches and independent local news working together is a wonderful idea, although it is probably dependent on each community.

“Here, where churches and faith schools and other places of worship are very much part of life, there is a strong case for it. Local clergy are involved both by subscribing and by contributing articles.”