Trinity Mirror’s local newspaper publishing arm Scottish & Universal Newspapers is to suspend publication of its free weekly titles.

The Drum has learned that six local freesheets; The Lanarkshire World, Perth Shopper, Stirling Shopper, Renfrewshire World, Clyde Weekly News and Dumfries and Galloway Today, will be suspended from printing from the week ending 9 September.

The decision will see the potential loss of three clerical roles and two roles in distribution the company has said, having entered a consultation period with those affected.

Bill Steven, managing director of Scottish & Universal Newspapers, said: “We’ve taken this decision to suspend these titles as a result of the challenging economic environment and we will review the feasibility of re-introducing them should trading conditions improve in the future.

“Where  possible we hope to achieve any redundancies by voluntary means and will  also  be exploring opportunities for alternative employment for those affected”.

The news comes as parent company Trinity Mirror has announced that it has seen its profits decline by 65% in the first half of 2011.