The editor-in-chief of Northcliffe’s weekly papers in Sussex and East Surrey has left the company after nine months in the role.
Frank le Duc joined East Surrey and Sussex News and Media – a division of the regional publishing company – in January after having previously been deputy editor of the Brighton Argus.
Northcliffe South East editorial director Alan Geere sent an internal memo to staff yesterday informing them of le Duc’s decision to leave the company to “pursue other interests.”
Press Gazette understands that amongst other projects, le Duc will now focus attention on the local news and information website Brighton and Hove News he and a business partner established last year.
During his brief spell with Northcliffe, le Duc oversaw the relocation of the Surrey Mirror – which he edited – from Reigate to Redhill and the relaunch of the Croydon Advertiser.
He also took overall editorial responsibility for the Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser, the Crawley News, the East Grinstead Courier and Observer and a string of other weeky titles in the group.
Geere told staff in his memo: “After careful reflection Frank le Duc has tendered his resignation to pursue other projects.
“By mutual agreement, and in the light of the fact that projects like the move to Redhill and the Croydon portfolio relaunch have effectively been delivered, we have agreed that Frank need not serve a lengthy notice period in the office…
“We would take this opportunity to thank Frank for this contribution and wish him well for the future.”
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