Thousands of copies of the Courier and the Press and Journal are to be given away to residents in care homes and hospitals in the run up to Christmas.

Publisher DC Thomson Media has partnered with BT to combat loneliness in the festive period.

At a time when the role of newspapers to keep people connected with their local communities and the world is more vital than ever, the publisher says the initiative will also guarantee readers get access to accurate public health information as the new vaccine is rolled out.

25,000 free copies of the daily Scottish titles will be distributed until Christmas Eve.

Richard Neville, Head of News Brands at DC Thomson, said, “At DC Thomson Media we continually strive to provide our communities with quality journalism they can trust, and we’re thrilled to partner with BT to make sure we reach readers who perhaps can’t get out to pick up their copy.”

Jane Wood, BT Group Scotland Director, said: “We’re pleased to be able to work with The Courier and The Press and Journal on this brilliant initiative to make sure that people in care homes have access to their local paper in the run up to Christmas.  We know local newspapers play a vital role for many people in connecting with their local communities and the world.”

Pictures: DC Thomson Media