Welcome to new editor – and roll on the 300th birthday of the News Letter!

At a time when unionists have good reason to be less than joyful, the appointment of Ben Lowry as editor of this newspaper will – if only briefly – bring cheer and a sense of optimism to readers.

The paper will no doubt quite unashamedly continue to bolster the unionist cause with its robust level-headed defence of Northern Ireland’s constitutional position.

Editorials frequently present cogent, erudite political analyses which invariably reflect the thinking of the all-important grass roots of Unionism – a skill which often seems to elude some unionist MLAs.

So hearty congratulations, Mr Editor, and best wishes for the run up to 2037!

Cliff Cardwell, Co Londonderry

• A message from the new editor Ben Lowry

• A link to 2021 columns by Ben Lowry

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A message from the Editor:

Thank you for reading this story on our website. While I have your attention, I also have an important request to make of you.

With the coronavirus lockdowns having had a major impact on many of our advertisers — and consequently the revenue we receive — we are more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription.

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Ben Lowry, Editor