THIS column usually expresses the views of this newspaper on matters of local and national importance.

Today it expresses my personal opinions as I leave the Worcester News for pastures new after four memorable years as Editor.

I have been proud and privileged to edit Worcester’s daily newspaper and to hopefully make a contribution to the city of my birth.

The Worcester News is produced by a hugely talented group of people and I think it is a newspaper of which Worcestershire should be proud.

We always refer to ourselves as “your Worcester News” and that is because this newspaper belongs to the people of Worcester and the surrounding county.

That was the case long before I was Editor and it will be the case long after I have gone.

There are always plenty of moaners and groaners who like to express their views either in print or online.

It is a free country. They are entitled to their opinions.

But I think those who find fault with everything sometimes benefit from a wider audience than they deserve.

The truth is there is much to celebrate in Worcester and Worcestershire.

We benefit from fantastic scenery, from history on our doorsteps, from thriving businesses, and there is more to come with some fantastic developments under way particularly in Worcester.

There are many reasons to look on the bright side of life in this county.

As I leave, I simply say thank you to our readers for sharing your newspaper with me.

Kevin Ward
Editor