A podcast celebrating the people of Preston is back for a second series with the help of a record-breaking BBC broadcaster – and it has even landed a slot on Central Radio.
The Parched Pea Podcast, hosted by long-running former BBC broadcaster John ‘Gilly’ Gillmore, is once again diving into the stories of Proud Prestonians. Recording is already underway, with new episodes set to be released this spring across all major podcast platforms.
This time, the podcast will also be aired on Central Radio, alongside coverage on Blog Preston and The Lancashire Post.
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Gilly said: “Great to be back hosting series two and again hearing so many amazing stories from Proud Prestonians. Plus, with the added bonus of the podcast being broadcast on Central Radio North West, it’s been a pleasure working with producer Nathan from the station, who is the absolute consummate professional.”
Named after the classic Preston delicacy, the Parched Pea Podcast brings together voices from across the city, shining a light on local characters and stories.
Nicola Adam, Editor-in-Chief at National World and former Lancashire Post editor, said: “There’s nowhere quite like Preston, and the Parched Pea Podcast, hosted by the marvellous Gilly, aims to capture personalities and city pride through conversation and stories. It’s also fantastic to be working with Central Radio, Blog Preston, and Cosy Homes in this new and refreshing era of collaboration here in Lancashire.”
In partnership between Blog Preston CIC, National World, and Central Radio, the new series will also feature video content across social media.
Ed Walker, Founder and Editor of Blog Preston CIC, added: “We are committed to working in partnership with individuals and organisations across the city, and we’re proud to help make The Parched Pea Podcast happen.
“And it’s fantastic it’ll be out on the radio airwaves as well as on podcast services, in The Lancashire Post, on social media, and, of course, Blog Preston too.”
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Nathan Hill, from Central Radio, said: “We’re thrilled to collaborate on this project. Adding radio to this multi-platform podcast is really exciting. We’re building on the success of the previous series, and this brand-new package of true-life stories will put proud Prestonians front and centre across radio, online, video, and print. We can’t wait to share some amazing local stories from truly inspirational people.
“John ‘Gilly’ Gillmore brings with him decades of broadcasting experience and has a way of bringing out the best in people when he interviews them.”
The first series of the podcast, featuring interviews on everything from Preston’s Windrush community to its food and drink scene, is available now on Spotify, Apple, and all major podcast platforms.
This series is supported by Cosy Homes in Lancashire, which helps residents make their homes warmer and reduce energy bills. Two episodes will focus on the impact of their work.
Andrea Howe, Energy Efficiency and Affordable Warmth Officer for Cosy Homes in Lancashire, said: “When the opportunity arose to work with the team and the Parched Pea Podcast, we jumped at the chance! We are all about supporting the community, whether that is signposting residents for support, providing help and advice, or opening the doors to government grants available. What better way to generate awareness than pledging our support as headline sponsors? We can’t wait to hear the end results and all the stories from residents and businesses.”
