Former Evening Times editor takes S&UN role

Scottish and Universal Newspapers, Scotland's largest regional newspaper publisher, has appointed former Evening Times editor John Scott as editorial director.

Scott began his newspaper career as a copy boy at the Evening Times and began his journalistic career at the Cumbernauld News before joining the Daily Record where he rose to the position of a new desk executive.

After joining the Evening Times he fulfilled a number of executive positions before becoming editor. He left the paper in 1999 and went on to work at First Press Publishing and with the Scottish Labour Party, where he was director of communications.

Scott said: "This is a very exciting and challenging position, and one that underlines the company's total commitment to journalistic excellence. I am delighted to be joining S&UN and to be able to use my experience to ensure our titles continue to build on the tremendous bond they enjoy with their readers."

S&UN's titles reach almost one million readers every week across the central belt of Scotland and in addition reach more than a million online.

Speaking of the appointment, Alex Cargill, managing director of S&UN, said: "This is a major appointment for S&UN. John is joining the board at a very exciting time. John's knowledge and understanding of the issues affecting local newspapers in Scotland will ensure that we are equipped to continue to drive S&UN forward."