The Journal was first published on 26th June 1980 and was founded by Steve Shipley, from Fosseway Press, Radstock. George Donkin later became Steve’s partner in the newspaper.
In August 2003, Northcliffe Newspapers (now Northcliffe Media, owned by the Daily Mail), attempted to acquire the title. However, the circulation figures for titles owned by Northcliffe meant that written consent of the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry was required.
However, in October 2003, it was reported that the then Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department of Trade and Industry with responsibility for Competition, Gerry Sutcliffe, had declined to consent to the transfer of ownership of Northcliffe because of the strength of Northcliffe’s titles in the Bristol and Bath area.
As a result, and within hours, Tindle Newspaper Group, led by Sir Ray Tindle, acquired The Journal instead, with George Donkin continuing to run The Journal side of the company after the takeover.
Tindle Newspaper Group own the title to this day, and George Donkin was the General Manager until his retirement in March 2013.
Becky Brooks, who joined The Journal in 2004 as an English graduate, has since taken over the role as Editor. Our small team of staff work in close contact with the community to bring the very best in local news and we work alongside our advertisers to help them get the best possible response.
Leah Smith, Journalism graduate, joined us in February 2013. Other staff members include Sarah Clothier in advertising, John Appleton in Accounts, Jamie Long (Ad Design), Rita Hyatt (Proofreader) and Dave Sherborne, photographer and delivery driver.
We look forward to working with you soon!