BBC Sounds, November 18, 2022

Trapped in an idyllic hell.

Once again, this Podcast proves it’s at the top of its interactive game as Danny, Ciaran and Evelyn pass the mike over to the fans for a deeper dive into the facts and phenomena surrounding Heol Fanog.

We hear a little of the impact of the episode 4 bombshell that was Echo’s death. Not only the death, but the location of it. It’s a sad and awful thing to hear, but I’d have stopped all contact with the Rich family too if that had been my horse. Some impressive maths from Miles is then demonstrated as we learn the statistical likelihood of that steed stepping off this mortal coil. I love hearing all the theories and research, not just from our experts, but from my fellow fans – it’s such a great community, and I’m particularly struck by that listening to every case update. New fandom names and catchphrases keep cropping up in the most organic way, just like our new ‘Witch Farmer General’ award for the most interesting piece of evidence or research!

Reflecting on the potential issues that quite literally lie beneath Heol Fanog, as discussed in episode 5, evidence is put forward to suggest that Chernobyl could be a culprit rather than forces of darkness from the beyond. That’s certainly surprising!

Liz and Bill turn to the local press for help, leading Danny to head to the archives of the Brecon and Radnor Express. Was going public a help or a hindrance? Listeners of The Battersea Poltergeist may remember the dreadful treatment inflicted by press in that case, but by then, Rich and Liz were desperate. However idyllic the Brecon Beacons are, if you feel trapped, it’s going to wear you down. I’m starting to worry about Bill… and episode 6!

Verdict: Who you gonna call? 7/10

Claire Smith