A NEW, free newspaper is launching next week in Aberdeen and the North-east of Scotland.
Being published by Media Scotland (the Scottish arm of Trinity Mirror), The Aberdonian will be inserted free into the North-east edition of its sister title, the Daily Record, and – says the company – “will also be available from vendors and selected retailers including supermarkets, key business premises and leisure destinations”.
Adds a media release issued by Media Scotland: “15,000 copies of the 32-page paper will be distributed reaching 40,000 readers and the launch will be supported by a marketing campaign which includes TV, radio and outdoor advertising.
“The title is being edited by Murray Foote, group editor of Media Scotland, and a former journalist in Aberdeen. His team includes award-winning journalist, Charlie Gall, North-east sports writer, Michael Gannon, and a host of star columnists.”
Foote is quoted, as saying: “I’m proud to be fronting the launch of a new newspaper as well as the expansion of our north east coverage in the Daily Record.
“This is a big, brave statement of intent from Media Scotland and a clear signal that we will invest in local news.
“We have a great team in place to deliver a quality newspaper to champion the people of Aberdeen.”
Allan Rennie, editor-in-chief of Media Scotland, is also quoted, as saying: “The Aberdonian will inform and entertain, with business and entertainment becoming weekly staples.
“At the back of the newspaper our coverage will be devoted to grassroots sports. We will not be wedded to any single political party or cosy up to vested interests.
“We promise a platform for alternative voices to generate informed debate about local issues. The only opinions that matter are those of the people living and working in Aberdeen.
“With help, support and feedback from our readers and advertisers, we hope it will evolve into a newspaper that Aberdeen can be proud of.”
Aberdeen is already served by at least one free weekly newspaper, the Aberdeen Citizen.
