STEADFAST Henley News editor Bill Leech is stepping down after the 500th and final edition of the online newsletter in its current form.
The former business CEO launched the site in 2004 and has been described by readers as a ‘pioneer of online news’.
Mr Leech will be handing the post to editor of the Ullenhall Parish Magazine Andy Jones.
And going forward the publication will be known as Henley Express.
The outgoing editor has thanked contributors for their support, in particular John Garner for his business column and proof reading assistance.
Readers and well-wishers have praised Mr Leech for his ‘championing’ of local causes and exposure of ‘wrongdoing’.
‘Bard of Henley’ Ray Evans wrote: “Long admired by me as a pioneer of online news in our town, Bill has for 500 editions kept us all informed and championed just about every group and society in the area.
“I thank him in particular for his support of the local arts. He was never stinting in his coverage of our modest works and helped the society thrive on his watch at Henley News.
“Quite apart from being a worthy editor, Bill has been part of the tapestry of Henley for as long as I can remember, taking an active role in civic life as well as such gatherings as the Court Leet and Probus, to name but a few.
“He has fought hard to expose hypocrisy and wrongdoing in many areas of our society and has collected his fair share of dissenters in so doing, he has never shirked from the responsibility of editing a news organ which has found its way into just about every household in the area, and he will be remembered as a great arbiter.”
Mr Leech has also been credited with securing the future of Henley’s much-loved community hub among other campaigns.
Visit Henleynews.co.uk for more information.
