But local newspapers do not just hold the Government to account for the local impact of the changes we are making.

They also play a vital a role in campaigning for the changes which local people want to see.

There are some real challenges ahead for Britain as a country, every one of which has an impact on local people – whether it is providing more affordable housing, improving our health service, making sure all our young people have the skills to get jobs in the future, making our streets safer for decent people, or protecting our environment.

Local newspapers are a critical part of this process, and I know that there is a huge opportunity for them to lead more campaigns on the issues which matter.

And I want readers of this newspaper to know that when you participate in these campaigns, we are listening to you.

That is why one of my first acts as Prime Minister was to appoint individual ministers for every region in Britain to ensure that the demands and concerns of local people are heard at the centre of Government.

And I want to do even more to move away from the old Britain weakened by decades of 'Whitehall knows best', towards a new Britain strengthened by local centres of energy, initiative, dynamism and decision-making.

Local newspapers make an essential contribution to the vitality of local communities, and as a result our whole national life is strengthened.

I congratulate you all and I wish you all the best for the future.