IPSO welcomes four new members

The Caerphilly Observer joins a growing number of local publishers who have recently signed up to be regulated by IPSO, including lliffe Media, West Bridgford Wire, and Thurrock Independent.

As members, they have agreed to observe the Editors’ Code of Practice; to abide by IPSO’s rulings on complaints; and to submit annual statements reporting their approach to ensuring editorial standards.

They join over 90% of national newspapers by circulation, almost all local newspapers, most of the main magazines and a number of digital-only publications.

Richard Gurner, Editor and Publisher of Caerphilly Observer, said:

"Being a member of an established press regulator ensures our journalism is kept to a high standard. It is very important to us that our readers have an independent body to go to if they are unhappy with what we do."

"Being an independent publication, we were particularly impressed with IPSO's offer to help us set up a robust complaints procedure in addition to its continuous advice helping journalists to report on a range of issues."

Richard Parkinson, Managing Director of Iliffe Media (Midlands), said:

"Although Iliffe Media Ltd was formed in 2015, our newspapers and our publishing heritage date back hundreds of years. Trust is at the heart of our business and maintaining high standards of journalism is key to preserving this trust. Joining IPSO underlines the importance of this, along with the importance of freedom of expression and accountability for it."

Patrick Gamble, Editor of the West Bridgford Wire said:

“For five years since its launch, westbridgfordwire.com has grown into one of the most successful local independent online news brands, covering breaking news and live events, as well as public sector, business, property and health and education stories."

"We’re trusted by and very well supported by our readers. To ensure that we retain high standards we chose to join IPSO to demonstrate that we take our responsibilities as a publisher seriously and to join with most major national and regional press titles.”

Neil Speight, Publisher and Managing Editor of the Thurrock Independent, said:

“It is important that newspapers can be held to account. Freedom of speech is an unalienable right but it is one that can and sometimes is abused and so there must be a watchdog that represents the interests of potentially injured parties."

"A strong and free press is very important, but it must have a check and balance and I am pleased to subscribe to IPSO.”

Sir Alan Moses, Chairman of IPSO said:

“The public deserve the assurance of robust regulation so I’m delighted that liffe Media, West Bridgford Wire, Thurrock Independent and Caerphilly Observer have all joined IPSO."

"It’s wonderful to have local independent publishers on board and demonstrates that IPSO membership is a mark of quality, responsible journalism.”

Notes to Editors

1. IPSO is the independent regulator of most of the UK's newspaper and magazine industry.

2. Any media enquiries can be directed to Vikki Julian, Senior Communications Officer at vikki.julian@ipso.co.uk