An independent survey of 600 residents across Eastbourne, Hailsham and Bexhill, East Sussex, has found that local newspapers published by Regional Media Group Ltd continue to achieve strong readership, with high levels of awareness, regular engagement and consistent reach across their communities.
The research, conducted in March 2026 by insight6, found that a combined 60% (58.36%) had read or looked through Eastbourne News, Hailsham News or Bexhill News, their local free newspaper, in the past four weeks, while 45% said they read every or most issues, highlighting consistent and repeat engagement, says Regional Media Group Ltd.
The findings also point to strong visibility within the titles, with over 55% of readers saying they notice adverts in the newspapers, rising to more than 70% in Bexhill and around 68% in Eastbourne.
Distribution strength remains a key factor, particularly in Hailsham, where almost 70% (66.93%) of those surveyed reported receiving the newspaper through their door. Hailsham News delivers 13,500 copies to doors throughout the town every month, via digitally tracked distributors.
The research was conducted through face-to-face street interviews across the three towns, providing independent, real-world insight into how audiences engage with local print, added Regional Media Group.
The findings come as print distribution continues to grow, with Eastbourne News increasing its print run from 15,000 copies to 16,000 in March, and rising again to 17,000 copies from April 2026.
Paul Gibson from Regional Media Group Ltd, said: “This research independently confirms the strength of our local newspapers in their communities. High awareness, regular readership and consistent engagement all point to the continued relevance of well-distributed, community-focused print titles.”
Paul Matthews, director at insight6, added: “We were pleased to carry out this independent research for Regional Media Group, and the results clearly demonstrate the strong presence and ongoing relevance of local newspapers within their communities. The level of awareness, readership and advertising visibility is very encouraging.”
The survey showed some other interesting facts, continued Regional Media Group. In Eastbourne, almost 70% (69.66%) of those interviewed said they either read every edition, most editions or occasionally read Eastbourne News. Whilst in Bexhill, only 12.5% of people said they don’t read their local publication, with only 11.81% in Hailsham.
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