THE Warrington Guardian has a new editor.

Hayley Smith has worked for Newsquest, the Guardian’s parent company, for more than 15 years, having started as a trainee reporter at the Northwich Guardian in 1999.

Since then the 37-year-old, who lives in Chapelford, has worked in a variety of roles, including chief reporter, sub editor and features editor, as well as deputy editor for both the Mid Cheshire and Warrington Guardians.

Most recently Hayley has been Warrington’s multi-media editor as well as editor of the Runcorn & Widnes World and Leigh Journal.

The mum-of-two said: “It is a real privilege for me to edit the Warrington Guardian, not only in terms of our printed newspapers but also our rapidly expanding websites.

“There is so much to shout about in our fantastic town – our recent Inspiration Awards are testament to that – and the incredible FA Cup win for Warrington Town is something we can all be proud of.

“This week’s edition is, I hope, a reflection of that pride and the support shown on Friday night, and I hope everyone will join the Warrington Guardian in continuing to back the club as it gears up for their second round tie against Gateshead next month.”

Hayley becomes the 16th editor of the Warrington Guardian, taking over from Nicola Priest, who took early retirement in September.