7 May 2014

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

TODAY sees the official launch of the town’s first ever digital online news site for, by and about the people of East Grinstead.

East Grinstead Online is the latest example in a growing trend for hyperlocal news sites which target and promote the communities they serve.

The venture is the initiative of East Grinstead journalist and author Geraldine Durrant, who has worked on all three of the town’s newspapers in the past and is also responsible for the Town Council’s PR.

“I have felt for a long time that our digital online presence as a town is confused and confusing, not least because many of the town’s websites are dusty and seldom updated.

“What I hope to do with East Grinstead Online is to provide a one-stop shop for the town’s news and events where we can showcase our businesses, promote our town and publicise our talents as a community.”

“But this isn’t something I can do alone. The only way that a hyperlocal is going to succeed is if the community it serves gets behind it and contributes towards it.

“We will be providing top quality content, regular news updates and features, and we have some exciting ideas for the future.  Amazingly we have already been discovered ahead of launch day by readers in Spain, Germany, Canada, Dubai, America and Nova Scotia.

“So check us out at eastgrinsteadonline.com – and let us have your ideas for our new community venture.”

Town MP backs new venture

EAST Grinstead MP Nicholas Soames has sent a message of personal congratulations to the team behind today’s official launch of East Grinstead Online in which he spoke of his great enthusiasm for the project.

In a separate statement applauding the arrival of the town’s first-ever digital news site for, by and about the people of East Grinstead, Mr Soames said:

“I warmly welcome this tremendous initiative to bring immediate local news of community events and services from across the town.  It will become a very important community service and provide valuable local information to East Grinstead residents.

“I think this is a magnificent initiative and I am quite sure that it will be a great success.”