Launch of new This Is Website

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Friday 2 November 2001

The UK's leading local information sites are getting even better. This Is, Northcliffe's on-line network offering the latest local news, sport and entertainment unveils the first of its new look sites in Leicester - www.thisisleicestershire.co.uk. For the first time, the This Is sites will include a dedicated website section for the local newspaper - www.leicestermercury.co.uk, bringing the strength of the newspaper's trusted local content to the web.

The extensive local what's on listings become easier to use. The new This Is system means every business, venue and restaurant comes with a locator map and additional information on local event ticket prices and availability where relevant. The site also provides a wealth of reference information on local education, health and politics.

Owen Davies, Managing Director of Northcliffe's Electronic Publishing operation, commented on the development:
"Our This Is sites bring a local community together with the best news, classifieds and 'what's on' information dedicated to the local area. Northcliffe will continue to invest to provide the best online services for people and businesses in the communities served by our newspapers.
Our existing sites receive more than 3 million page impressions every week, and the re-launch will provide the best local classifieds and local business directory listings in the UK with more local news, comment and great features. Fifteen more 'This Is' sites will be re-launched over the next three months.
The sites also include our innovative community network, "The Beehive". This allows local charities and community groups to create their own simple websites and post local community information absolutely free of charge. More than 5,000 not-for-profit groups have become part of The Beehive, and that figure continues to grow."

Inquiries to:
Greg Moore Synapse Ltd +44 (0)20 7721 8575
Susie Fraser Northcliffe Electronic Publishing +44 (0)20 7406 1506