Johnston Press (JP) has appointed Gary Shipton, group editor of JP’s Sussex weeklies, as deputy chairman of its editorial board.

The appointment follows the resignation of The Scotsman's editor Ian Stewart, who stepped down to focus on the upcoming Scottish independence referendum and the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Jeremy Clifford, chairman of the board, said: “Gary brings a number of strengths to the role and balance to the make-up of the Editorial Board.

“With his wide experience and grasp of the weekly newspaper operation, I will be able to draw on his experience to reflect the work we do across our portfolio of titles. Gary will also be an invaluable help in taking on more responsibilities that flow from the Editorial Board structure.”

The editorial board is made up of editorial leaders across JP’s regional divisions.