More than 20 jobs are at risk at The Press in York as the company considers the closure of its print operation.

Under the proposal, printing of The Press and its sister weekly title would switch to another company press in Bradford.

A company statement released to staff today said that in the light of "highly challenging trading conditions" the company was looking to improve the efficiency of the business and that could mean the closure of the printing press in York by the middle of January.

Up to 22 printing and engineering jobs and a number of drivers' posts would be affected.

Under the plan, The Northern Echo, currently printed in York, along with The Durham, Chester-le-Street and Consett and Stanley Advertisers, would be printed at another press on Teesside.

Consultations are being held with all affected staff and every effort is being made to avoid compulsory redundancies.