The Yorkshire Post: A History of British Journalism
With roots stretching back to the mid-18th century, The Yorkshire Post stands as one of Britain's oldest and most storied daily newspapers. From its beginnings as a weekly publication to its role in breaking international news, the paper has mirrored the political and social shifts of the region and the nation for centuries.
From the Leeds Intelligencer to a Daily Powerhouse
The publication was founded in 1754 as the Leeds Intelligencer, establishing it as one of the first daily newspapers in Britain. For over a century, it operated as a weekly paper until 1865, when it was acquired by a group of Conservatives who formed the Yorkshire Conservative Newspaper Company Limited. This acquisition transitioned the publication into a daily format under its current name.
The first issue of The Yorkshire Post was published on July 2, 1866. In its debut, the paper clearly defined its editorial stance: it aimed to be both conservative and progressive, supporting practical improvements and constitutional reform while resisting organic changes, democracy, and revolution.
Growth, Rivalries, and Peak Circulation
Throughout the early 20th century, the paper cemented its reputation for high-impact journalism. Under the editorship of Arthur Mann, the publication broke the story of the Edward VIII abdication crisis. In 1939, the paper expanded its reach by absorbing its rival, the Leeds Mercury. Founded in 1718, the Mercury had been a liberal alternative to the Intelligencer since the late 18th century, led by Edward Baines and later his son of the same name.
The 1950s marked the publication's commercial peak, with daily sales reaching 120,000 copies. To maintain its appeal, the paper developed a diverse range of content, including an extensive business section with two weekly pull-out supplements, alongside regular supplements focusing on motoring, culture, rural affairs, and sport.
Modern Transitions and Digital Challenges
Like many traditional print media outlets, The Yorkshire Post faced significant circulation declines in the 21st century. Daily sales dropped to 40,000 by 2012 (though weekend sales remained higher at nearly 90,000), falling further to under 22,000 by late 2017, and reaching 18,534 between January and June 2019.
In 2012, the parent company, Johnston Press, implemented cost-cutting measures by merging the title with the Yorkshire Evening Post, the local paper for the Leeds city region. Under editor Peter Charlton, the two titles combined their news, features, business, and sport departments, with correspondents writing for both publications.
Operational changes continued in February 2012 when Johnston Press closed the Leeds printing facility, moving production to a plant in Dinnington near Sheffield.
![The former Yorkshire Post headquarters at Wellington Street, Leeds.[4]](/images/09/f1/09f1e8479b34747fd8a01f9c25fea287fc41ecb7046bb2e3f69d3c1a4f91d5ba.jpg)
The physical footprint of the paper also changed. In September 2013, it was announced that the Wellington Street premises would be demolished. While journalists had already vacated the site and demolition began in March 2014, the building's tower was spared from destruction.
Recent Developments and Public Discourse
In March 2014, the publication restored "The" to its official name, ending a 46-year period where it had been referred to without the definite article.
The paper returned to the national spotlight during the 2019 general election. Following a story published by its sister title, the Yorkshire Evening Post, regarding a boy receiving treatment on the floor of Leeds General Infirmary, the publications faced significant criticism on social media. Editor James Mitchinson responded by writing an open letter to a reader to defend the journalism and the titles.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1754 (as the Leeds Intelligencer).
- Daily Launch: July 2, 1866.
- Peak Circulation: 120,000 copies daily in the 1950s.
- Major Merger: Absorbed the liberal Leeds Mercury in 1939.
- Corporate Merger: Combined operations with Yorkshire Evening Post in 2012.
- Printing Shift: Moved from Leeds to Dinnington in 2012.
| Period/Year | Event/Metric | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1754 | Foundation | Established as Leeds Intelligencer |
| 1866 | Rebranding | First issue of The Yorkshire Post |
| 1939 | Acquisition | Absorbed the Leeds Mercury |
| 1950s | Peak Sales | 120,000 copies per day |
| 2012 | Consolidation | Merged with Yorkshire Evening Post |
| 2019 | Recent Circulation | 18,534 (Jan-June) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original name of The Yorkshire Post?
The paper was originally founded in 1754 as the Leeds Intelligencer, which operated as a weekly newspaper before becoming a daily in 1866.
When did the paper merge with the Leeds Mercury?
The Yorkshire Post absorbed its rival, the liberal-leaning Leeds Mercury, in 1939.
Why did the paper merge with the Yorkshire Evening Post?
The merger occurred in 2012 as part of a cost-cutting initiative by the parent company, Johnston Press, leading to combined departments for news, sport, business, and features.
What happened to the Wellington Street headquarters?
The premises were slated for demolition in September 2013. While preliminary demolition began in March 2014, the tower of the building was spared.
How has the circulation of the paper changed over time?
Circulation peaked at 120,000 daily copies in the 1950s, declined to 40,000 by 2012, and further dropped to 18,534 for the first half of 2019.