This is how my masthead looks now. I believe that it's more eye catching and people would notice the newspaper.

The title of the newspaper stands out and is clear, there's a contrast between the background and the name of the newspaper. I've placed the logo in the middle, it's like a separation between the information and the title.
"Your Local Wake Up Call! Features & News for Basildon & Area" - this tells the audience that it's a local paper.
I've also put the date it's starting and how much it costs. I decided not to make it too expensive because local newspapers are usually free or cheaper than the others.