A NEW editor has taken over at the Hampshire Chronicle and she promises to breathe fresh life into the long-standing local newspaper.

Kimberley Barber joined Newsquest, the company which owns the Hampshire Chronicle and hundreds of other local news titles across the country, in December.

Kimberley, who lives in Swanmore, was previously the business editor at The News, Portsmouth’s daily newspaper which is owned by JPIMedia.

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After a decade in her previous job, the mum-of-two felt that it was time to take a step forward in her career.

She said: “It’s every reporter’s dream to become the editor of their local newspaper. When I saw the role advertised, I knew it was the right role for me. Not only am I proud to take on such responsibility, but I am also proud to be able to represent my community on the issues that matter most. I am also proud to take on a newspaper that has been part of its community for 250 years.

“Over the years the Hampshire Chronicle has been a voice for countless people and groups, it’s championed Winchester and it’s held the powerful to account. I intend to continue in its long-standing traditions, as well as enhancing the newspaper’s offer online and on social media.”

Kimberley, 35, studied BA (Hons) Journalism at Southampton Solent University after completing a Higher National Diploma in Media Production at Highbury College in Portsmouth.

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Originally from Essex, she has lived in Kent, Devon, Cornwall and Hampshire, as well as completing several ski seasons in Les Arcs, France. She has previously held jobs in retail management and sales.

Kimberley is not the only new face in Newsquest, as Ben Fishwick has taken on the role of editor of the Daily Echo in Southampton. He has also moved across from The News, where he was chief reporter.

Kimberley will be based at the Hampshire Chronicle's office in Upper Bar Street, Winchester. She also has responsibility for the Romsey Advertiser, Basingstoke Gazette and Andover Advertiser.

Kimberley has taken over from Bill Browne, who retired in December after 45 years.

Andrew Napier will remain as the Hampshire Chronicle's chief reporter, with reporters Toby Oliver and Harvey Lindsay.

Reporter Frankie Rudland is due to join the Hampshire Chronicle team on January 28, transferring from Newsquest-owned Worcester News.

Senior reporter Sophie Day will be moving from the Hampshire Chronicle to take on the role of Head of News at the Basingstoke Gazette on January 24.

There are also two reporter roles currently being advertised.

Kimberley said: “I appreciate that with any change in a business there will be a short period of uncertainty while everyone settles in, but I am confident that these changes will be for the best. I thank the loyal readers of the Hampshire Chronicle for their patience, and I welcome any feedback on what they would like to see done differently.”

To contact Kimberley, email kimberley.barber@newsquest.co.uk or call 07468701702. 

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Kimberley Barber