A future as bright as our past: What is next for the Comet?

It's been no mean feat. The industry faces many challenges - the rise of digital content, that has provided the Comet with (somewhat) worthy competition, ever-shrinking newsrooms and a global pandemic to name a few...

These are all challenges the Comet has not only risen to, but soared through.

However you delve into your local news - whether it be via our print product, e-edition, website, or social media channels - we continue to be number one for local news and views since 1971.

A huge part of the Comet's success can be attributed to keeping its teams local. Editors, reporters and sales representatives have never hailed from too far away.

As someone who was born and raised in Stevenage, I've always had a perspective of the Comet's standing in the towns it serves. The town - which my family has hailed from for more than ten generations - strives to grow into a more modern and fit for purpose place for its residents, the Comet looks to grow with it.

During what is an exciting time - for Stevenage in particular, which is in the midst of a major overhaul - we too at the Comet are set for a makeover of our own.

The Comet is entering into a new phase which will equip the team to better meet the needs of the unique towns, villages and hamlets in our area. What will not change is the dedication from the reporting team, in keeping you engaged, entertained and informed.

In 2022, we look forward to continuing the legacy of the last five decades, but with a new look and approach to delivering the news to our communities, young and old.

Chief reporters Georgia Barrow, Bianca Wild (top and bottom left), senior reporter Louise McEvoy - who has worked for the Comet for 15 years - (top right), and editor Anne Suslak look ahead as the Comet relaunches (Image: Archant)

This fresh-faced Comet will still have the same dedicated team working behind it. With Herts-native Anne Suslak leading a team of reporters, we are ready for a future as bright as our past.

She said: "It's a privilege to steer the Comet during uncertain times. A highlight for me has been celebrating the Comet's 50th anniversary and hearing from former editors about their experiences, and about how much the industry has evolved through the years.

"I look forward to seeing how it continues to evolve as we move into 2022."

Fellow chief reporter Bianca Wild lends her expertise across two Archant titles, and is instrumental in the training and development of reporters who have come through the Comet ranks over the last five years.

She said: "The Comet is a powerhouse of local news - and I have no doubt it will continue as such in the years to come. Accurate, challenging and meaningful journalism is a liferaft in a sea of uncertainty, both nationally and within local communities, and has never been more important than it is today.

"The Comet team continues to be equipped with the tools to steer those communities through, without complacency. It is a pleasure and a privilege to continue to play a role in such a valued source of journalism and I look forward to the Comet's next chapter."

Of course, none of what we do can be done without our supporters, from dedicated readers to advertisers.

Our sales representatives have always prided themselves on building strong working relationships with the bread and butter of any town - its independent businesses.

Sales director Jermaine Cayenne said: "Our clients have been the bedrock of our business for the last 50 years, not only are they our clients, but loyal readers of the Comet too.

"Over the past five decades, our clients have evolved with us, adapting to the ever-changing world of marketing.

"It blows my mind to think what marketing will look like in 50 years time, but one thing is for sure, the Comet will support and educate its clients to keep them connected with our Comet audience regardless of platform.

"Thank you to our loyal clients for supporting us!"