NEWSQUEST, the publishers of the Western Telegraph and Milford Mercury has moved to reassure their readers after deciding to close the Milford Mercury down.
The edition of August 20, 2020 will be the last date that that newspaper will be printed, the company has confirmed.
In a letter to newsagents dated August 6, Group Editor Fiona Phillips said: “Covid-19 has affected many businesses across Wales, particularly news brands that operate in similar local markets. The Milford Mercury is one of those news brands affected by the loss of casual sales as well as by the turn-down in the advertising market.”
Fiona Phillips said that the Mercury website would continue to operate.
She added: “I want to re-assure Milford of our continued support through the Western Telegraph.”
Cllr Viv Stoddart said: “As the founding editor of the Milford Mercury it is sad news to hear of the closure of the print copy of the weekly newspaper.
“The Milford Mercury was launched at the height of the 1992 recession.
“Despite the downturn in the economy, as a family team, Tessa (marketing) Helen (chief sub) Mike (sport) ably assisted by Claire Beavan, and the wonderful support of our advertisers, volunteer contributors, and readers, the Merc proved to be a success with the community.
“The reason for hitting the news stands with a new weekly was that Pembrokeshire’s largest town was worthy of, and deserved its own voice.
“From our small, but beautiful beginnings, the Merc went from strength to strength.
“Its unique selling point was bold investigative journalism, excellent local news coverage, engaging readers in fun items such as Page Five Fellas, Where are they now photos, the Merc Abroad, sport coverage, and Old Grumpy’s popular column holding the elite establishment to account.
“As circulation increased we were able to recruit more wonderful staff to create a very happy team.
“I remember hard work by everyone to make the independent weekly a success; the stress of meeting deadlines was leavened by office banter, goodwill, and laughter, resulting in very happy Merc memories.”
Mayor of Milford Haven, Cllr Terry Davies, said that he was sad to see the paper go. He told The Herald: “The Milford Mercury has been the town newspaper since October 1992 and will be sadly missed by many.”
