Champions Newspapers has ceased trading after 28 years.
The independent company was based in offices on Lord Street in Southport and produced three newspaper editions every Wednesday, covering: Southport and Formby; West Lancashire; and North Liverpool, as well as online news via Champnews.com.
Owners blamed “current trading conditions” as they praised loyal staff who have been “the backbone of the business”.
It is believed that employees were given the bad news last Thursday, before the firm issued a press release today.
Managing Director Lyndsey Naylor said: “After 28 years publishing Champion Newspapers we regret that due to current trading conditions Waypride Limited is no longer viable and it is with deep regret we have now ceased publication of local Champion titles.
“We are devastated that our loyal staff, who have worked tirelessly to save the business, will no longer have employment.
“The Champion staff have been the backbone of the business consistently setting the highest standards of newspaper publishing across all disciplines.
“It is their loyalty and commitment to serving readers and advertisers that has given the Champion so many happy and successful years as your trusted local newspaper.
“We are proud of the staff and their achievements and are sure you will join us in wishing them every success in the future.
“Many thanks to our advertisers for making this journey possible, we wish each of you continued success during these difficult times.”
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