The BBC has announced a groundbreaking new podcast titled The Salisbury Poisonings, which will provide in-depth coverage of the public inquiry into the tragic death of Dawn Sturgess. This series, hosted by BBC journalists Marie Lennon and Andy Howard, will explore the events surrounding Sturgess’s death, offering listeners crucial insights into the circumstances of her poisoning and its broader implications for the community.
Background: The Tragedy of Dawn Sturgess
Dawn Sturgess, a mother of three from Wiltshire, lost her life in 2018 after coming into contact with Novichok, a nerve agent that was disguised as a perfume bottle. This devastating event occurred just four months after the high-profile poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter, Yulia, in Salisbury. The parallel incidents sparked widespread concern and raised serious questions about public safety and accountability.
Podcast Launch and Format
Beginning on Friday, October 11, the podcast will air two episodes weekly throughout October and November. Each episode will feature:
- Excerpts from the public inquiry hearings: Providing a firsthand account of the testimonies.
- Expert analysis and contextual insights: Offering a deeper understanding of the implications of the inquiry findings.
- Exclusive interviews: Key figures involved in the investigation, including former Prime Minister Theresa May, will share their perspectives.
Insight into the Investigation
The inquiry aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Sturgess’s death, the identities of those responsible, and whether her death could have been averted. As the podcast unfolds, listeners can expect comprehensive insights into the complexities of conducting a major public inquiry.
Marie Lennon emphasized the significance of this investigation, stating, “While many remember the initial poisoning incident involving the Skripals, there are still numerous questions about what transpired in the months leading to Dawn’s tragic death. These events deeply affected the local community, particularly Dawn’s family, who have been waiting six years for answers.”
Andy Howard expressed his views on the profound impact of the events in Salisbury, remarking, “Covering the Salisbury incident was the most shocking story of my career, and even now, six years later, many questions remain unanswered. This podcast allows us the opportunity to delve deeper into the factors that led to the use of a chemical weapon that claimed the life of a mother.”
Commitment to Local Storytelling
Chris Burns, the Controller of Local Audio Commissioning for the BBC, stated the importance of localized storytelling. He noted, “Our local teams have a unique connection to the communities they serve, which makes this podcast particularly valuable. It is a product of homegrown storytelling, allowing us to pursue the truth without an agenda, framed through the experiences of our audiences.”
What to Expect from The Salisbury Poisonings
Listeners can look forward to a compelling exploration of the inquiry as it progresses. The podcast will not only report on the findings but also provide insights into the human impact of these events. Each episode promises to reveal more about how the inquiry is shaping our understanding of public safety and government accountability in the face of such tragedies.
Where to Listen
The Salisbury Poisonings will be available on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio Wiltshire, contributing to the larger series, The Crime Next Door, which highlights local stories that resonate with audiences.
Conclusion: A Call for Accountability
As the public inquiry into Dawn Sturgess’s death unfolds, The Salisbury Poisonings podcast stands as a vital platform for transparency, accountability, and community engagement. It aims to honor Dawn’s memory by ensuring that her story is told, understood, and never forgotten.
