Congratulations for the Belfast News Letter
28 September 2007
Gordon Brown has sent his best wishes to the staff and readers of the Belfast News Letter that celebrates its 270th anniversary today.
The paper, first printed in 1737, is praised by the PM for its "record of continuous service" to the Belfast community.
The News Letter, as it is called now, is the oldest continuously published newspaper in the English-speaking world , covering stories including the trial and execution of the Highwayman Dick Turpin in 1739, and the potato famine of the mid 19th Century and in August 1776 was the first to tell Europe that America had declared independence, printing the entire Declaration of Independence in full on its front page.
In a letter sent to the News Letter , the Prime Minister said that reaching "a phenomenal 270 years in such good health" is a "reason for celebration".
Mr Brown told staff and readers:
"You have played a vital role in informing your readers and reflecting their concerns and hopes and in doing so help bring communities together.
"Congratulations again on reaching this landmark and best wishes for the next 270 years!"
Image copyright: Reuters
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