A FAMILIAR face to many has returned to the Packet patch after an 18 month break from the newspaper industry, to report on Falmouth and Penryn.

Former Packet editor Paul Armstrong took time out from the local newspaper industry after nearly 20 years as a journalist. But the lure of being a reporter in is his own patch has pulled him back in.

Paul was editor of the Packet from 2008 until 2018, when he left the paper to pursue other challenges, but has now returned as a senior reporter.

“There have been some turbulent times since I left the Packet in 2018, not least of which has been the worldwide pandemic,” he said.

“As Cornwall found itself involved in a world wide story, I found myself wanting to get back into journalism to tell the stories of how local people are coping.

“I have lived in Cornwall for over 20 years now and love the place and its people. I am already loving getting out and about on my old patch and seeing familiar faces and new.

“Things move so fast in this industry and it has changed so much since I left. We are able to tell people’s stories in so many different ways now.

“We can do it instantly on our website, through social media or, for people who like things more traditional, through our series of Packet newspapers.

“If you have a story to tell, or something you think is important for other people to know, please get in touch and I will do everything I can to tell it.”

You can contact Paul by calling 01326 213331 or emailing him via paul.armstrong@newsquest.co.uk

Emma Ferguson, the Packet’s head of content, said: “It’s wonderful to have Paul back, with the wealth of experience and knowledge of the local area that he brings with him.

“I know that under his watchful eye and nose for a story that the Packet will be able to bring readers even more articles than ever before that really matter to the community.”