Friday marks the end of an era for the Thompson Citizen.

That’s when the last edition of the local newspaper will be distributed.

The news of the paper’s closing was announced earlier this week to much surprise and disappointment.

When reached, Gord Brewerton, Vice-President and Group Publisher for the Prairie Newspaper Group, owner of the Thompson Citizen, said quote - “despite our best efforts, dwindling advertiser support has created a situation whereby the publication is no longer viable, nor sustainable.”

Ownership felt they were left with no other option than to shut down operations.

Brewerton said all staff members will stay with the company and have accepted positions in other PNG markets.