From Scotland to Sheringham: The North Norfolk News unveils its new editor

An award-winning journalist who prides himself on championing local communities has been appointed the new community editor for the North Norfolk News.

Ally McGilvray, who has more than 15 years' experience writing for the local and national media, joined the news team in Cromer this week. He replaces editor Richard Batson, who left the company at the end of the year.

The 36-year-old former Highlands and Islands Young Journalist of the Year was previously editor of two weekly newspapers in Scotland, the Border Telegraph and Peeblesshire News - during which time he was the only editor of a paid-for weekly in Britain to record circulation growth two years in a row.

Ally, who has moved to Sheringham from the Scottish Borders, said: 'In a fast-moving news environment where readers expect to be kept updated on the news 24 hours a day, seven days a week, online and in print, I am very excited to take the helm at the North Norfolk News. To do the job I love in one of the most beautiful parts of the country is a dream come true.'

'I am very much a hands-on editor and hope to do almost as much writing as I will be editing. I am looking forward to getting out and about to meet as many people as possible and hear of all the good work going on in our area, as well as any issues they may have, in the weeks and months ahead.'

Ally, a keen ultra marathon runner, joins reporters Alex Hurrell, Hayley Johnston, Miles Jermy and Tracey Gray at the North Norfolk News office in Church Street, Cromer, with Karen Bethell covering community stories.

Explaining his move, Ally said: 'The North Norfolk News has a very proud history and has served the local community well under the editorship of Richard Batson.

'While I appreciate I have big shoes to fill, I am looking forward to continuing to stand up for our readers and give a voice to those who might not otherwise be heard.'

? Call 01263 513172 or email Ally.McGilvray@archant.co.uk