BBC Sounds, 21 June 2023

“Why don’t you investigate a current haunting?”

Well, I wasn’t expecting that! Uncanny still has the power to surprise as series 2 ends on a high note. In a first for the podcast, we have our first ‘active’ case and a classic Listen Live, followed by an extended Twitter Spaces discussion which was a delight. The BBC should let Danny run them all the time, just saying.

Live Tweets during the episode were full of puns involving 1970s song titles by Carly Simon. Which greatly amused Carly, but I don’t know about Simon. They’re our witnesses for a haunting that is currently in progress – one where the ghost in question isn’t tried to one location… because it followed them home from their holiday in the French countryside.

Now, there were a lot of people around, including children, so there is always the possibility of some prank pulling. But. Windows, doors and drawers that open of their own accord; terrifying screams that you can feel in your face, and floating little girls in dark pink cardigans aren’t all easy to fabricate.

When similar things begin to happen once the family are back home – with added jabs in the side when things start to get physical – it’s got to be a headscratcher. ‘We need more witnesses outside the family’ you cry. Will a couple of contractors do? They heard so much clattering around, they thought Carly was home from work… nope. It was Nicole. Well, what else are you going to call a French girl, if you’re a fan of old-school car adverts?

There’s photographic evidence to pour over too, as what appears to be a hand/arm print on one of the chairs in the kitchen. It really does look like a closed hand, but it could well have a more mundane origin… nothing’s ever clear cut, is it?

With respectful, lively debate facilitating frank and brave sharing of opinions and experiences, together with Carly’s special appearance, it’s a lovely way to end the series. Leave ’em wanting more!

Verdict: Nobody does inclusive paranormal debate better. Makes me feel sad for the rest. 9/10

Claire Smith