A PR and communications agency has added a journalist to its ranks.

Lee Peck Media has recruited Sam Pither, who was editor of Hampshire Biz News and Dorset Biz News for The Business Magazine Group.

Agency founder Lee Peck said the agency is in a new period of growth.

It comes after his daughter and former BBC journalist Frankie Peck left the agency to work for Southampton Test MP Satvir Kaur.

Lee said: "Securing Sam has been a real coup and we’re thrilled to have him on board.

" As we all know talent is a rare commodity and Sam’s work as an editor was there for all to see.

"As a senior account manager, Sam will be a great asset to the leepeckmedia team as we enter a new chapter of growth.

"I’m particularly interested in his expertise in AI which will add a new dimension to the service we offer clients. ”

Previously Sam regularly contributed to The Business Magazine's bi-monthly print magazine, covering everything from property to technology.

He boasts contacts across the area and a knowledge of AI that is set to be deployed in the agency..

The agency offers a range of services including media relations, reputation management, public affairs and social media to clients regional, nationally and internationally.

Clients include housebuilder Barratt, InstaVolt, the country’s largest provider of EV rapid chargers, clean energy company Enviromena, Aura Technology and the University of Southampton, ranked among the best in the world.

Sam, who studied at University College London, said: “I’m really looking forward to getting started on this exciting new chapter in my career.

"I’ve been impressed with Lee Peck Media for quite some time, having regularly worked with them while running Hampshire and Dorset Biz News.

“They’re a well-respected name in this area, and Lee in particular is the perfect mentor for me as I move sectors.

“I hope I can use my experience as a journalist to help shout about all the great things my clients are doing.”