COMMUNICATIONS agency Deep South Media (DSM) has launched a new photographic and video division.

Former Newsquest picture editor Paul Collins has joined the Bournemouth-based company to head the new operation.

His appointment brings the number of news professionals employed by DSM to 11, including three former business editors.

Ron Wain, joint managing director, said: "Paul is one of the best news and PR photographers in the business and we couldn't be more pleased to have secured his services.

"He's also a superb video journalist, allowing us to offer this extra service to existing and new clients.

"Strong images – both still and moving – have never been more important, particularly in this age of social media.

"We're confident that our new photographic and video division will be a huge success within a very short space of time."

As Picture Editor of the Southern Daily Echo and Newsquest Hampshire since 1999, Mr Collins was responsible for the photographic content of the Southern Daily Echo, Hampshire Chronicle, Basingstoke Gazette, Romsey Advertiser, Andover Advertiser and associated newspapers, magazines, websites and supplements.

His role included managing the photographic departments and staff of all of the publications as well as providing pictures and video. He covered everything from Princess Diana to Premier League football.