Express editor Geoff Maynard recalls the night of June 23, 2016, as if it were yesterday, though a decade has passed. Then a news editor with less grey hair, he manned the newsdesk during a historic day for the nation. The Express had campaigned for Britain to leave the European Union since November 2010, believing in reclaiming sovereignty from a bureaucratic Brussels machine.
The vote to leave came as a surprise, even to some in the newsroom. Early predictions favored Remain, but when results from northern Red Wall bastions came in, it was clear Leave would win. Express editor Hugh Whittow beamed with delight, putting Nigel Farage on speakerphone to celebrate. Thousands of words were written for a late victory edition, and Maynard felt it was a real moment in history.
A Decade On: Unfulfilled Promises
Ten years later, Maynard laments that many Brexit promises remain undelivered. The Covid pandemic and Ukraine war diverted attention, but he sees a lack of willingness to deliver true sovereignty and border control. Under Keir Starmer's Labour, he believes the intention is to draw Britain closer to Europe, not fulfill Leave promises.
As Express editor, Maynard feels a duty to continue the Brexit fight. The newspaper launched a 'Give Us A Proper Brexit' campaign earlier this year to counter the creep back into the EU and push for delivery of Brexit promises.
Anniversary Content Package
For the 10th anniversary, the Express has produced a special content package. Highlights include an exclusive interview with Nigel Farage, a Daily Expresso episode with Mark Dolan, a major poll on Brexit benefits, and an interview with Jacob Rees-Mogg. Premium readers can submit questions for Rees-Mogg. Other features include chats with Tim Martin and Sir Rocco Forte, and a column by Leo McKinstry.
Visual and Digital Celebrations
The anniversary will be marked by two Express Spitfire flypasts over the South coast, providing stunning visuals over the white cliffs. The website will be revamped with Union Flag colors to stress patriotic values. The Express aims to back causes that matter to hard-working Britons, including getting Brexit done.
Premium Offer
Starting on the anniversary day, the Express offers a 10-day Premium subscription for just 10p per day for a year (£36.50). This gives access to exclusive news, features, comment, and sport, plus regular messages from the editor and Daily Expresso clips.
Campaigning Legacy
Maynard is proud of the Express's role in delivering the Brexit vote and vows to keep fighting for proper delivery. The newspaper has a strong campaigning record, including saving the triple lock for pensioners, forcing a U-turn on winter fuel allowance cuts, and winning access to cystic fibrosis drugs. It also campaigns for assisted dying, high streets, fish and chip shops, post offices, a bravery medal for emergency services heroes, and the return of Ukraine's stolen children.
Campaigning is the lifeblood of the Express, and ensuring Britain gets a proper Brexit is top of the list. Readers are invited to enjoy the anniversary coverage across the website, social media, YouTube, and print.
