Why your Sunderland Echo needs your support

The Echo. It’s been at the very heart of life in Sunderland for almost 150 years.

Since 1873, it has delivered the news to the people of Sunderland and given them a voice.

It has reported in times of war and peace. On tragedies and triumphs.

It has become synonymous with Sunderland. Just like Penshaw Monument, SAFC and our beautiful beaches, the envy of all other cities.

A lot has changed since the Echo first started publishing. These days - under the shadow of our magnificent new Northern Spire bridge - the news team operate around-the-clock to reflect the modern, digital age.

Many of you now want the news directly to your phones and laptops. And if it’s happening in Sunderland, the Echo team will be first to deliver that to you, seven days a week.

All across our newsroom are people who are fiercely proud to come from Sunderland. Sons and daughters of the Wear who, just like you, are passionate about where they live.

People like Phil Smith and Tony Gillan, dyed-in-the-wool red and whites who’ve been following Sunderland from the Roker Park terraces to the press box at the Stadium of Light.

And people like Ryan Smith. The newest recruit to the team and a typical Sunderland lad delighted to be working for the title he grew up with.

These are people just like you. People who know the news YOU want and who are best to provide it.

But the high-quality journalism they and the rest of the Echo team provide costs money. We have to be absolutely clear about that.

And that is why we are asking for our loyal readers to support us and help us continue serving you by subscribing to the sunderlandecho.com website.

Yes, there will be a cost. But we also hope you will agree there is a value. Our new subscription service will not only keep you in the know but it will make your online experience easier. There’ll be fewer advertisement and you’ll also get our newsletters that keep you up-to-date on city life.

At a time when social media is awash with rumour and inaccuracy, it has never been more important to have a trusted and regulated voice like ours covering the city. To keep holding the authorities to account. To keep YOUR voice heard.

It will be your financial support that helps us to continue to focus on what matters to YOU.

Our readers will always be at the centre of what we do. That’s why we hope you’ll continue to back us. Together, WE ARE SUNDERLAND.

Gary Oliver & Mark Thompson, Acting Editors

Click here to subscribe to the Sunderland Echo.