Over 2,000 people have downloaded the free Crewe Nub News app, just one month after its launch, helping support the future of independent local journalism in the town.

The milestone marks a boost for the local news service, which is encouraging more readers to access its stories directly through the app.

The easy-to-download app offers a faster reading experience, easier access to the latest local stories, breaking news alerts and notifications about what's happening in Crewe.

It also gives readers a direct way to keep up with local news, without relying on the changing algorithms used by social media and search platforms.

Nub News CEO, Karl Hancock, said the future of free local journalism faces growing challenges, with AI-generated search summaries changing how people find and access news online.

He said: "At Nub News, we believe every town deserves its own dedicated local news service, one that celebrates its community, supports local businesses and charities, and delivers quality, original journalism about the stories that really matter.

"However, the future of free local news is under serious threat.

"AI-generated summaries are increasingly changing how people find information online, meaning fewer readers are clicking through to news websites.

"Meanwhile, what people see on social media and search platforms is largely determined by algorithms that can change overnight.

"We are increasingly reliant on these platforms to reach readers.

"The consequences for local journalism and Nub News could be devastating.

"If we cannot build a direct relationship with our readers through the app, our website traffic could decline.

"If our readership falls, local businesses may stop advertising with us.

"And without that advertising revenue, we simply won't be able to afford to keep Nub News running in Crewe, Nantwich or other towns."

Crewe Nub News is encouraging more people to download the app and help secure the future of free local news.

Mr Hancock added: "That's why we're asking our readers to do this: download our completely free Nub News app and use it to read your local news.

"The app puts you back in control. The app gives you instant access to the latest stories, breaking news alerts and notifications about what's happening in Crewe.

"More importantly, it allows us to communicate directly with you, without relying on the changing algorithms of social media and search platforms.

"We're not asking you to pay for your local news. We're asking you to help us keep it free.

"Every download, every reader and every visit helps us build a more sustainable future for independent local journalism in Crewe.

"If you value good-quality, original local news about Crewe, please download the Nub News app today.

"It really could make the difference between your town having its own dedicated local news service or losing it altogether."

The Nub News app is free to download and provides another way for Crewe residents to stay connected with the stories, people and businesses shaping their town.

Download the app for Apple HERE and for Android HERE.

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Crewe Nub News, supported by Crewe-based family business, Swansway Motor Group, has launched the Crewe Prize Draw.

The Crewe Prize Draw sees one winner take home a cash prize every fortnight, with every ticket purchased helping raise vital funds for community-based causes in Crewe.

The next draw takes place on Thursday 19 November. Buy a ticket for just £2.