THE Hereford Times has a new man in Leominster -- experienced local journalist Pete Blench has joined the paper's staff.

He is based in the town at our branch office in the Brightwells building on the South Street/Westbury Street corner.

Pete writes: "I am a Londoner by birth but have now lived in North Herefordshire for 20 years and feel I am getting to know the place fairly well!

"I have travelled the world, but it is in Leominster that I finally put down roots and raised a family. My two daughters are at school in the town. My wife, Felicity, works in Leominster and the village schools as a relief teacher.

"Some journalists, perhaps unavoidably, are carpet-baggers who just pass through on the way to some more glamorous posting.

"I am coming from a different direction. I am part of my community and I am rooting for it. I love Leominster, its flaws and charms. It is warm, quirky, different - and not like Milton Keynes! Long may it remain so."

Pete welcomes local news items and feedback from readers. He can be contacted Monday to Wednesday on 01568 612188. Telephone messages can be left on tape at other times. The postal address is Hereford Times, 38 South Street, Leominster HR6 8JG.