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Who are we?

The Teesdale Mercury is a long-established weekly newspaper serving the Teesdale area in County Durham.

Founded in 1854, it provides local news, features, community stories, court reports, events, sports coverage, opinion pieces and lots more to the people living in the area.

The Mercury reflects the interests and concerns of the local community in a way larger media outlets cannot.

The paper reaches a high proportion of local households and acts as a vital source of information and connection for residents.

Our staff

Alan Formby-Jackson is the current editor.

He joined after a long career in regional print media, including senior production and editorial roles at Newsquest and Reach titles, bringing extensive journalism and newsroom leadership experience to the historic weekly.

Martin Paul, Philip Tallentire and Andy Potts are the senior reporters, each bringing many years of experience in the journalism and media industry.

Between them, they have built long careers reporting for regional newspapers, developing a deep understanding of community journalism and the issues that matter most to readers.

Dorothy Blundell is the paper’s sub-editor, supporting the newsroom by editing copy, designing pages, helping to maintain editorial standards and accuracy and ensuring that stories are clear and well-presented for readers.

Together, this team helps the Teesdale Mercury play its role as a trusted local news source and community voice, keeping residents informed, connected and engaged with life in Teesdale.

Our owner

The Teesdale Mercury is owned by Barrnon Media Ltd.

The family-owned independent group has its head office in Penrith, Cumbria.

Passionate about local media, it bought the Teesdale Mercury in 2024.

It also owns two other print titles – the Cumberland & Westmorland Herald in the Eden Valley, established in 1860 and the Keswick Reminder in the Lake District town, which was founded in 1896.

Plus, it has online platform Cumbria Crack – first for the county’s breaking news – and its sister website Business Crack.