South African Press Association reported that the Times Media Eastern Cape announced that it will be closing the local "Evening Post" newspaper. Consultations with the paper's employees would begin immediately as it was expected that the newspaper would close within six weeks.

The company said that the restructuring of its publications would see it focus its energy and resources on the "Herald" and "East Cape Weekend". "Evening Post" staff were addressed by TMEC publisher Chris Mosia and editor-in-chief Ric Wilson on October 17. They said that due to mounting losses, the closure of the paper was inevitable. Mosia said that although the newspaper was relaunched two years ago and well received by readers, it had failed to attract sufficient advertising in a difficult and competitive market. Wilson said that while the proposed closure of the newspaper was sad, the company had identified exciting opportunities for expansion in both the "Herald" and "East Cape Weekend".

The newspaper, founded 50 years ago, has suffered declining circulation since the advent of TV in 1976 and the change in newspaper reading trends towards morning newspapers. Wilson said that the departure of former editor Lakela Kaunda, who resigned last month to join the staff of Deputy President Jacob Zuma, was a blow to the newspaper and the company. "When lakela left and we faced the prospect of hiring another editor, we also had to face the commercial reality of the newspaper's position and make a tough decision on its future," Wilson said.

Ends