THE Clarion has welcomed back an old friend to take over the role of general manager.

Sheila Argument worked at East Cleveland's favourite weekly newspaper eight years ago and has returned to take charge of the advertising department.

Mrs Argument, who has strong local links throughout East Cleveland, said: "I am really pleased to be back, meeting old faces and working with local businesses.

"There are hard times at the moment and to come back to a newspaper that can work closely with local businesses is a real challenge, but one that I think will be successful for everyone involved.

"The Clarion has the support and backing of a big company now, Newsquest North East, but it still has that close relationship with the community of a great local newspaper.