A website set up to give a town a new “voice” has marked its first month in operation with more than 300,000 views across all platforms.

The Rochdale Times was established last month following the closure after 27 years of established hyperlocal platform Rochdale Online.

Now its founders, former Northern Echo editor Karl Holbrook and former Newsquest North West MD Nick Fellows are celebrating what they called “an exceptional debut.”

During April, the site generated 182,000 on-site page views and more than 145,000 views on its social media channels.

Karl, pictured, who edits the site along with running his own consultancy North Square Media, said: “We’ve been blown away by the support from day one.

“These numbers are way beyond what we expected from such a small, fast launch. It’s real proof that there’s a real appetite for an independent voice that champions Rochdale.

“We’re so proud of what we’ve achieved already but we’re only just getting started.

“From our rail campaign to celebrating Rochdale’s Town of Culture status, we’re determined to build something lasting and positive that the borough can be proud of.”

Nick, MD Crosby Associates Media, added: “This launch has exceeded expectations. It shows what’s possible when experienced journalists, passionate publishers, and a supportive community come together with a shared purpose.

“This is the latest in a number of successful launches for Crosby this year and we couldn’t be prouder of the result.”

In its first four weeks, the Times published more than 120 stories and helped secure MP Paul Waugh’s backing for the campaign to reinstate Rochdale’s direct rail link to London after a 25-year absence.

It has also formed strong early links with the local business community with Hopwood Hall College and Rochdale Riverside coming on board as partners.