Alastair Machray is to be the new Editor of the Liverpool
Echo.
Machray, 43, has edited the Daily Post in Wales since 2002 when
it separated from its 'twin', the Liverpool Daily Post. Prior to that, he edited
the combined editions of the Daily Post for seven years.
He takes up his new post on June 20, and the process to appoint
his replacement begins immediately.
Machray is no stranger to the Echo, having joined the title as
Assistant Editor in 1994.
He began his career in 1979 as a trainee reporter at the
Sunderland Echo. Four years later he joined The Journal in Newcastle, and had a
spell at the Evening Chronicle before moving to London to join Today.
He returned to the Chronicle in 1988, and became Design Editor
under the editorship of Neil Benson, now Trinity Mirror's Editorial Director,
Regionals. Machray was recruited to the Echo to redesign the title after the
introduction of new colour presses.
Under his leadership the Daily Post has been among the top
regional newspapers in terms of circulation performance.
Georgina Harvey, Trinity Mirror's Managing Director, Regional
Newspapers, said: "One of the main ingredients of the Daily Post's success under
Ali has been its exceptionally close relationship with its readers, and I know
he will look to further strengthen the Echo's bond with its readership on
Merseyside.
"This appointment follows our announcement last week that Steve
Dyson is to become Editor of the Birmingham Evening Mail.
"It says a great deal about the depth of talent within Trinity
Mirror that successful, home-grown editors beat off extremely tough competition
to land two of the biggest jobs in the industry."
Machray said: "I am proud, honoured and excited to be taking
over the editorship of one of the truly great titles in newspapers.
"The Liverpool Echo is a mighty brand and I will be doing
everything I can to strengthen it further by cementing our unique relationship
with our readers.
"There has never been a more thrilling time to work at the Echo
and I am looking forward to it immensely.
"I am obviously sad to be leaving the Daily Post in Wales, a
fabulous paper which will always be very close to my heart. I leave it in good
shape, though, with a bright future and a great team to drive it forward."
