The uncertain future of local newspapers in Kent has taken an unexpected turn after the Kent Messenger Group decided to launch a new title.

The sale of Northcliffe Media's  East Kent Gazette together with six other Kent titles, to rival publisher,  Kent Messenger collapsed after intervention from competition watchdogs.

Northcliffe reluctantly decided to close the 156-year-old Gazette along with the Medway News which are appearing this week for the last time.

But before the ink has dried, KM Group has now decided to launch a new paid-for title, the Sittingbourne News Extra which covers the same area as the East Kent Gazette.

It is expected will go on sale next Wednesday with a cover price of 65p

The new paper is being produced by the team behind the 153-year-old Sheerness Times Guardian, plus additional journalists.

The KM Group will continue to publish the Sittingbourne Messenger on a Friday, which offers a wider mix of local and county-wide content.

KM Group chairman Geraldine Allinson reportedly said: “We believe there is a real need for a community newspaper serving the people of Sittingbourne, and if the KRNM (Northcliffe Media) deal had gone ahead we would certainly have continued to publish the East Kent Gazette.

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©