The 143-year-old Warminster Journal has been saved from closure and is back in publication this week with a fresh new look and an exciting future ahead.
After facing closure when its previous owners ceased publication in December 2024, the community newspaper has been taken over by Wiltshire Publications, an independent family-owned newspaper group, and given a new lease of life.
In this edition, readers can expect a revamped Warminster Journal, now a free fortnightly publication, designed to connect and inform the local community. With 8,500 copies being delivered to homes and businesses across Warminster, and a dedicated digital edition available online, the paper promises to be an accessible and vital source of news for everyone in the town.
Editor Ian Drew said, “The response from the local community has been extremely positive. It would have been a real shame to lose a newspaper with such a long and proud history. In an era when local newspapers are in decline, especially independent ones, it’s something to be celebrated that we are bucking the trend.
“The new-look paper will be packed with community news, highlighting local events, achievements, and stories that matter to Warminster residents. It aims to celebrate everything happening in the town and provide a voice for the community.”
The Warminster Journal was first published in 1881 when William Gladstone was Prime Minister and Queen Victoria was on the throne. It has been a trusted source of local news for generations, and now, thanks to this relaunch, it will continue to serve the town for years to come.
Wiltshire Publications, the company behind the relaunch, is a family-run business with over 40 years of experience in bringing local news to communities. The company first established Melksham News in 1981 and later took over White Horse News in Westbury in 1992 and Frome Times in 1999. Their commitment to independent journalism and community-focused reporting has made their publications a trusted source of news across the region.
“We’re really proud to be expanding and bringing the Warminster Journal back to serve its community,” added Ian. “It’s exciting to publish our first edition and see just what a great town Warminster is and just how much goes on in the local community.
“If you’re involved in local groups or organisations, do get in touch and help us share your news with the town,” said Ian, adding that the paper’s revival has only been made possible through the support of local businesses. “The paper is financed entirely by advertising so a very big thank you to all the local businesses who are advertising with us and whose support has made this possible. Local businesses are the backbone of the community, and their support means that Warminster continues to have its own dedicated newspaper.”
Warminster Mayor Stacie Allensby said, “I welcome the return of the Warminster Journal. It is great to have a paper dedicated to coverage of our local area. We wish them every success and look forward to working with them to promote Warminster and provide news for our community.”
