Yorkshire Post publisher National World Plc has acquired The Banbridge Chronicle, a traditional, community-based paid weekly newspaper with a publishing history spanning over 150 years.
The Chronicle, which launched in 1870, was owned and published by Edward Hodgett Ltd before being saved from closure by Bann Media Ltd in 2022.
The Chronicle’s long heritage provides further opportunity to underpin National World’s commitment to local news publishing throughout the UK, and in particular its efforts to grow its business in Northern Ireland. National World already operates the Northern Ireland World website North of the border.
Peter Laidlaw, MD of Bann Media, said he was pleased to confirm the sale of Bann to the Leeds HQ’d National World organisation. He added that, given the ongoing consolidation within the regional press, he felt that the best interests of the staff, the title and the community were better served by being included in a larger, progressive company.
Laidlaw also paid tribute to “a professional editorial staff,” and wished them well for the future.
National World’s executive chairman David Montgomery said: “I first read the Chronicle as a schoolboy when visiting my uncle’s farm near Banbridge. So I know how valued it has always been in the community. National World will protect the Chronicle’s editorial heritage and independence and will continue to promote Banbridge, its families, businesses and the cultural life of this beautiful part of Co Down.”
