A little bird has told me Colin Channon, this newspaper’s editor, is leaving at the end of this week. He will take up a new position teaching and inspiring a new generation of journalists – a role I’m sure he’ll excel at.

Colin came to Farnham, to manage this group of newspapers, some five years ago in a fast-changing world. With his positive attitude, he displayed a loyalty and a passion for our communities in the wider region, he was full of ideas and breathed a new energy and life into the newspaper. 

At the Regional Press Awards in 2020, the Herald was named Weekly Newspaper of the Year. 

Colin has steered the newspaper group through game-changing events including Covid, the challenging times faced by local newspapers and the impact of the wider economic situation. He, and his team, have been local heroes. 

On behalf of Farnham Sports Council – though I’m sure I can speak on behalf of the wider community, too – a big thank you to Colin for all his professionalism, enthusiasm and hard work and we extend to him our best wishes for the future.

And, finally, to the directors and the staff connected with this newspaper group, we extend best wishes to you as well. Your weekly newspaper, established as far back as 1892, is an important part of our heritage and you still make a difference.

By David Gill

Chair, Farnham Sports Council

The editor says: Your little bird is right, David! This is the final paper produced with me in the hot seat. It has been a fantastic five years, and what the team here has achieved in those five years makes me very proud. The crowning glory, of course, was winning the Society of Editors’ Weekly Newspaper of the Year award – that was a very special occasion. I’ve loved my time here and say thank you to all the people and organisations who have always made me so very welcome. And to all the groups I met when I turned up to give a talk: thanks for all the tea! And many, many thanks to all our readers for your support – it has always been very much appreciated.