More modern printing technology is available in Plymouth

Managers say the press at Exeter is old and they now have extra space to print the Express and Echo on more hi-tech machinery in Plymouth.

The proposed move has come about because there is now spare capacity at the presses of the Western Morning News and Evening Herald in Plymouth.

A 30-day consultation period has started with print staff.

Redundancies possible

Bosses say the press in Exeter is of old technology with limited colour facilities and is getting to the end of its viable existence.

The Plymouth option has arisen following the loss of a contract to print the Daily Mail.

If the plans go ahead all work from Exeter would be transferred to Plymouth with the papers being taken east by road, which could mean earlier deadlines.

Options for staff include redundancy or the possibility of a move to other jobs.

The Express and Echo, which is the UK's evening newspaper of the year, was first published in 1904.

It has been printed in the city ever since, except for a short term move to Torquay after the Exeter blitz in 1942 .