THE sale of the Isle of Wight County Press to Newsquest, which could be agreed this week, should be put on hold according to MP Bob Seely.
In a letter to chief executive Robin Freeman, Mr Seely said he was 'far from convinced' the takeover was in the best interests of the Island and put high-quality journalism and grassroots reporting at risk.
Mr Seely said :“I understand that the intended sale to Newsquest is due to be formalised this week, so I would ask that an immediate consideration is given to my request for a delay."
A delay in the process would allow those behind a local bid to prepare and put forward their own fully-costed proposals and business plan, said Mr Seely.
Mr Seely described the County Press as a 'unique and cherished part of what our Island has to offer' and praised its role in holding those involved in public life to account for 130 years.
He said he would seek a meeting with Newsquest to discuss the future of the Isle of Wight County Press, if the deal went ahead.