Local media remains at the heart of life in towns and villages across the West Country. Pulman's news will remain a key syndication point.
While print formats may well be decreasing, the appetite for news itself, particularly community news, is in huge demand.
Despite the scandals unearthed by the Leveson enquiry, I still believe in the power, for good, of our British press and media.
And remember, the British regional press has been largely untouched by any scandal and remains a core and very reliable source of ethical news. Pulman's News is a brand of enormous repute dating all the way back to its launch in 1857.
Here are just some of the reasons I remain committed to protecting independent press freedom and why I see value in my investment in Pulman's Weekly News Group.
Local media can do these things and more:
It can speak to communities where living standards are high, or where rural, social or economic barriers prevent people accessing vital information and education.
It can also reach people struck by isolation, loneliness and poverty.
It can help build and highlight local businesses.
It can introduce people to new ideas and help strengthen bonds within local communities.
Media can move mountains.
We help communities use it to change lives - and unite our readers through engagement and promotion of your stories.
Stories about your local towns, people and neighbourhood news.
As a West Country man born and bred, it is a privilege to be working with Pulman's Weekly News and steering the brand towards an exciting new era of multi-channel community news reporting.
Duncan Williams, Regional Media Director, Pulman's Weekly News Group.
