Last updated July 30, 2024 – 5:00 p.m.
A new podcast collaboration between Lancashire Post and Blog Preston explores what drives Preston and its people.
The Parched Pea Podcast is hosted by local radio legend John “Gillie” Gilmore, who, with support from producers Ellie Browning and Sasha Wiltshire, talks to the characters that make up the town.
Named after Preston's signature dish, patched peas, episodes of the podcast include conversations about art, identity, sense of place, nostalgia, history, the future and the challenges facing the city.
Gillie said: “It's nice to be back to what I do best – going out and meeting people, chatting to them and unearthing great stories. It's been fantastic to be involved in this project.”
Supporting Gillie on the podcast are Ellie and Sasha, both journalism students at the University of Central Lancashire.
Ellie said: “The podcast has been a fantastic experience – I've loved learning from Jilly and everyone involved and hearing the stories of all the fantastic people of Preston.”
Sasha added: “Making this podcast was such an amazing experience. I feel like we really captured the beauty of Preston.”
The Parched Pea Podcast is a collaboration between Blog Preston and the Post, aiming to bring Preston's stories to audiences in audio form.
Ed Walker, founder and co-editor of Blog Preston, said: “By combining Jilly's experience with her knowledge and passion for our city, we have created a podcast that captures all things Preston.”
“It's fantastic to see Ellie and Sasha working with such legends in broadcasting, and this podcast will give a timeless voice to the stories behind the people and places of the city.”
Nicola Adam, National World editor (North) and former editor of the Post, said: “We're thrilled to be kicking off this project in Preston with Ed and have been so impressed with Ellie and Sasha's work and of course the lovely Jilly.”
“It's really satisfying to be able to truly work together beyond the press and do something good for Proud Preston. A huge thank you to all our sponsors.”
Six episodes of the Parched Pea Podcast have been released and will be available on Spotify, Apple, and all other major podcast platforms.
