A weekly newspaper editor who succeeded to the top job after a long stint as number two is retiring after 26 years with the title.

Ray Sanderson is stepping down as editor of the Fermanagh Herald after what he described as a “long but exciting” career with the title.

Ray, pictured, joined the North West News Group weekly in July 1999 as a senior reporter and was appointed deputy editor the following year.

After a long stint as number two, he was appointed editor in February 2021, overseeing a major revamp of the newspaper.

Said Ray: “It has been a long but exciting almost 26 years. I have seen a lot of changes within the industry and within the Group and it was good to be part of the continual development of the company.

“Achieving the position of Editor was a source of great satisfaction for me after all of my years in the industry and with the company. It showed trust in my ability as a person and as a journalist.”

“I tried to deal with everybody on an even keel and gave the community the stories that mattered most to them. Our job is to tell the stories. I think that we have done that and will continue to do that.”

“I’m see this as a time to reset. It has been my life for a long time,” he added. “I take this opportunity to thank all who have helped and guided me on my journey over these years in journalism”

Before joining the Herald, Ray previously worked for the Impartial Reporter for 21 years, rising to the position of deputy editor.

Former editor and group managing director Dominic McClements described him as an exceptional journalist and newsroom leader who gained the respect of industry colleagues and readers alike.

“Ray’s quiet and unassuming style has gained him many admirers in what is often a fast moving and pressurised business. He always put others first, whether that was a junior member of staff who was learning the trade of journalism, or the reader of the Fermanagh Herald,” he said:

“His passion and interest in promoting the best of Fermanagh was always his priority and as the paper heads towards its 125th anniversary, he leaves it in an exceptionally strong position and the company, directors and all his colleagues salute him for his exceptional service.”

Group editor of the NWNG Nigel McDonagh added:  “Ray’s leadership has helped steer the Fermanagh Herald through times of great change.

“With his understanding and connection to the local community, he brought care and credibility to our content. We’re grateful for his service and wish him every happiness in retirement.”