It is the end of an era for a family dynasty of ownership at Ashburton’s oldest newspaper.
The Ashburton Guardian has been owned by the Bell family for 125 years.
But fifth generation Simon Bell sold his shares earlier this month to the newspaper’s fellow co-owner Daryl Holden.
The Ashburton Courier understands he had his last day at the newspaper’s office on Friday.
The Guardian project manager, and son of former newspaper owner and manager Bruce Bell, earlier this week had no comment when contacted by the Courier. Likewise, Bruce, who lives in Christchurch, did not return calls from the Courier.
However, the father-son pair featured in an in-house interview on the Guardian‘s Facebook page last night, confirming the change of ownership.
Simon said it was “a pretty emotional time”, while Bruce said “it is a saddish day”.
Simon said he was off to start a “new opportunity” in Christchurch, while Bruce was philosophical about the end of five generations of ownership.
“I learned some years ago that nothing is forever and I am super happy Simon has found something that will suit him.”
Bruce said he himself would continue to be involved, sharing his experiences, and in future business.
Holden, who also featured in the interview, said the newspaper was going “to try a few different things”.
“And with Bruce there in the background, we will make it happen.”
Holden is the newspaper’s managing editor.
He started managing the Guardian about four years ago, before buying into the business. His background is in broadcasting and print media, and the agribusiness field in senior commercial management and sales roles.
Companies Register documents for the company Ashburton Guardian 2018 Ltd show it was on May 9 Simon was removed as a shareholder. The amended share allocation shows Holden as owner of all the company’s shares.
The Bell family’s ownership of the newspaper dates back to 1900, when Robert Bell bought a financial interest in it. He acquired full ownership in 1902.
The business was passed through a line of sons – William Bell, John Bell, then Bruce and Simon.
The newspaper thrived across generations as an independently owned daily but has struggled in the digital age with declining subscriptions and advertising.
In 2020, it went from publishing six days per week to three days, and last year to two days per week.
