IT'S a milestone in the 152-year history of the Hexham Courant as the first new-look compact edition rolls off the press.

The switch in format for the North-East's last remaining broadsheet follows extensive research to gather the thoughts of readers and advertisers.

The change is aimed at packaging the newspaper's same traditional brand of news, sport and features into a more convenient and accessible product.

And the fresh new form will help the Courant team to provide even more relevant content for the loyal audience of thousands which turn to the title each week.

This week's first 80-page compact edition marks a significant investment in the newspaper and its commitment to continuing to develop and thrive to meet the demands of the digital world we now live in.

Courant editor, Colin Tapping, said: "Rest assured, there will be no let up in our traditional ethos to provide an unrivalled service to the communities we serve, and to champion those communities at all times.

"Indeed, we now have a wonderful opportunity to extend and improve that service, as you will see, for example in our new property, motoring and what’s on sections."