SIR Ray Tindle, the proprietor of The Monmouthshire Beacon, has completed the purchase of three new papers to add to his ever-growing group.

It was announced recently that TNL has purchased Essex based weeklies The Leigh and Westcliff Times, The Canvey Island and Benfleet Times and the Rayleigh and Eastwood Times.

Sir Ray said he was delighted with the purchase and was grateful that the Guy family, who had founded the Times series of papers a quarter of a century ago, had offered to assist to ensure a smooth hand-over and a happy relationship with the staff and readers.

"All our weeklies are in fine fettle" Sir Ray told a meeting of staff of the newly acquired papers. "You are joining a strong and flourishing weekly newspaper company".