As reported by HTFP, this and other recent announcements, are an apparent reversal of the policy of ‘decentralisation’ introduced after the takeover of JPIMedia by National World at the start of 2021.
In a Twitter thread on 10 February, Liam Hoden wrote:
“Can’t quite believe I’m writing this but I’ve worked my last day for @donnyfreepress as, after almost 15 years with JPIMedia, I’ve decided to explore other opportunities. There’s been plenty of ups and downs over that time but I’ve loved it all.
The last ten months as editor of the Free Press has been an honour and I’ll wear that ex-editor badge with pride for the rest of my life. The team I’ve had the privilege of leading have been incredible and I wish all of them the very best for the future.
We were determined to bring the Free Press back to Doncaster and restore it as the voice of the people of the borough. I believe we’ve made a good go at that, and the remaining team will continue to give their all to deliver the best coverage for Doncaster.
I dreamed of writing about football from a young age and I’ve had the privilege of doing that for 14 years, with the last decade spent covering #drfc. I couldn’t have wished for a better club to have the honour of following up and down the country as well as day in, day out.
There have been some amazing people that have guided and helped me and I’ll forever be thankful. I have to give special mention to those that showed real belief and trust in me along the way, namely Bob Westerdale, Kath Finlay and, of course, my mentor and friend Peter Catt.
I’ve worked with dozens of people and made some incredible friends - in particular the sports lads at The Star, past and present, my long time workmate Paul Goodwin, plus some special people at the Free Press over the years - people who never get/got the credit they deserve.
It’s been a job that’s introduced me to some incredible people and afforded me wonderful opportunities. Walking away from it was not an easy decision at all but I’m excited for the future, especially giving some more time to the most understanding family I’m so lucky to have.
Sorry for the rambling, long thread. Brevity has never been a strong attribute of mine - as subs and page designers have known all too well. I’ll see you down the road.”
Keep up-to-date with publishing news: sign up here for InPubWeekly, our free weekly e-newsletter.
