Radio 4 podcast produced by Bafflegab Productions, available on BBC Sounds

Some spoilers for the investigation follow

“I’m a believer, he couldn’t leave her if he tried.” A further update and listeners’ questions debated.

Some interesting sceptical questions focusing on finding a logical, rational explanation linked to the geography of Wycliffe Road. While there are some details dug up in the area’s history that are certainly worth a closer look, none are convincing enough on closer examination, especially as the poltergeist phenomena is no longer just tied to Wycliffe Road, but Donald seems to be following Shirley around now, as if he can’t bear to leave her.

The hammer toe ‘clicking’ theory gets a deep-dive, which I’m pleased about as the thought that this noise could have been the source of the loud disturbances described in episode 1 is just too implausible for me. Yes, it may be possible for someone to unconsciously click their toes, and Shirley’s family history of arthritis and ballet dancing in her childhood could contribute to this condition, but again there’s a demonstration of the sound, and it’s clear once again that this kind of click is just not easy to mistake for a tap or a knock. They’re very different sounds, and no, that clicking sound would not trick me into believing it was supernatural.

Cliff Michelmore, a very sober and respected giant of BBC journalism, was clearly affected by his meeting of Shirley… and Donald… who was evidently quite excited by the prospect of being on TV. Maybe he wanted Cliff’s autograph.

There’s still the question of energy, that needs further exploration in my view. The fact that, as Chib has said, poltergeists often draw on the energy of a person – doesn’t that explain Donald’s apparent portability? Shirley may not want to carry him around with her, but she doesn’t have a choice. Or is it Donald who doesn’t have any choice?

Verdict: Theories abound on both sides of the debate as a breakthrough in the investigation seems elusive.  8/10

Claire Smith