Independent online publication Stroud Times is celebrating its fifth anniversary, marking five years of providing free-to-access journalism.
Since launching in 2021, Stroud Times has built a loyal readership by delivering engaging human-interest stories, comprehensive sports coverage and high-quality photography and video – all without paywalls, clickbait headlines or intrusive advertising.
Editor Ash Loveridge thanked readers and partners who have supported the publication since its launch.
“We say a huge thank you to our readers and advertising partners who have supported us during the last five years and understand the value of a truly independent news outlet,” he said.
“Unlike many multinational-owned local papers, we don’t expect readers to subscribe to a paywall to access our reporting.
“Our online audience has grown significantly across multiple media platforms and we’re excited about the next five years as we continue to go from strength to strength.”
He added that the publication remains committed to genuine local reporting.
“When readers click on our stories they’ll find reporting from the Five Valleys we proudly serve- not recycled headlines from Birmingham or Glasgow.
“Thank you to everyone who has read, shared and supported our journalism over the past five years.”
Happy Birthday, Stroud Times
Dr Simon Opher MP, Member of Parliament for Stroud, said: “Without a robust, free press we lack the necessary tools to understand our world.
“Social media and unfiltered streaming services don’t fill the gap, so we end up relying on media driven by profit and vested interest – where clickbait is king.
“The joy of Stroud Times is that it provides local, free and professional journalism. They are a great team and we are lucky to have them. I’m looking forward to the next five years.”
Dale Vince, founder of Ecotricity and owner of Forest Green Rovers, added: “Happy Birthday Stroud Times – no longer a toddler, never a tiddler.”
Acclaimed actor Alice Lowe said: “Stroud Times is such an asset to our community, run by people in whom the love of Stroud is tangible, made with love and care and attention to detail. And really speaks for what Stroud stands for and what makes it stand out as a special place. Happy Birthday to Stroud Times and all who sail in her.”
Joseph Trinder, Managing Director of Wotton Auction Rooms, praised the publication’s work with local businesses.
“Our partnership with Stroud Times has been one of the most rewarding and beneficial developments we have made as a business in the last 24 months,” he said.
“A local team who truly understand our community and have the tools and experience to broadcast our message to a global audience.”
Acclaimed actor and artist Emma Samms said: “Congratulations on your fifth anniversary, and especially to Faye (Hatcher) and Matt (Bigwood) – bravo! I know what you do, and I think you do it very well. You guys are really good professionals: engaging, warm, friendly and you get the soundbites when you need to. So congratulations on five years, and here’s to many more!”
Nick Ponting, Chief Operating Officer at Montpellier Legal, added: “To start a new publication in a small town was a bold move, but it’s fantastic to see how trusted and successful Stroud Times has become. We’re proud to be part of the journey.”
Laurence Kapoor, Events Programmer and Manager at Stroud Brewery, said: “Big cheers to five years of Stroud Times – keeping it real, keeping us connected and shining a light on the things that make this place buzz.”
Wesley Birch, landlord of The Ship Inn and The Butchers Arms, said:
“They don’t just report the news – they invest their time and heart into the people who live and work here.”
Mick Grundy, Centre Manager at Five Valleys Shopping Centre, said: “Stroud Times is a wonderful partner in telling the stories of the people, businesses and initiatives that make our town such a vibrant place to live and work.”
Tony Davey, Chairman of the Stroud and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce, added: “In a landscape increasingly filled with misinformation, trusted local insight is vital. Publications like Stroud Times help keep our communities connected to factual and reliable news.”
Simon Taylor, Stroud Wine Company: “Congratulations on 5 years of Stroud Times! Independent, trusted, and genuinely in tune with local life.
“We’re proud to contribute regular articles and to play a small part in what you do. We get great feedback and love it when a customer pops in and tells us they saw our latest piece in the Stroud Times, whilst picking up a bottle. We can share what’s new, the latest wine on the shelves, the next tasting date, or just the comings and goings of the wine trade, all with people we might never reach otherwise. As a small, local business that connection is invaluable. All the very best for the next 5 years.”
Zoe McMillian, Michael Gamble Funeral Directors: “Michael Gamble Funeral Directors values immensely the strong and positive relationship that has developed between ourselves and The Stroud Times. Both organisations serve the same people – families, neighbours and friends – and share a commitment to honouring lives lived and keeping the community connected. For many families, the Stroud Times is a trusted place where they can announce a loss, celebrate a life lived, and invite the community to pay their respects. This partnership helps ensure that these messages reach the people who knew and cared about the individual.
“At the same time, our relationship reflects a deeper connection to the community itself. The Funeral Home supports families at some of the most difficult moments in their lives, while the Stroud Times keeps residents informed about the people and events that shape local life. Working together, we help maintain a sense of community, remembrance, and support – ensuring that no life passes unrecognised and no family feels unseen and alone and in their loss. In a close-knit area like Stroud, these local connections matter.”
Hannah Frazer, Communications Manager at Renishaw, said: “Local journalism makes a real difference. It celebrates achievements and gives a platform to voices that might otherwise go unheard. Supporting a publication that champions its community feels natural to us.”
Louise Harris, Assistant Principal and Head of Marling Sixth Form, said: “Happy birthday Stroud Times – always willing to share positive news about the Stroud community and run by a lovely team.”
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