South West Londoner

It's lights out and away we go this weekend as Formula 1 returns with the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Londoners sport journalists Tom Picillo and Nina Hristova recorded their conversation on Thursday with F1 expert and host of the Execelerate podcast, Joseph Terry, who helped preview the season.

Produced by Nathan Edwards, Tom Picillo and Nina Hristova.

In the age of misinformation and deepfakes, what is the place of AI within the music industry. With the voice of artists, such as Taylor Swift, being used to make deep-fake covers of songs they have never sung before, has the casual use of AI gone too far?

This episode discusses the use of AI in the music industry through consideration of its shortcomings and benefits by determining how the use of AI in the industry is affecting copyright regulations and the integrity of the works of artists, whilst also providing increased accessibility for individuals who want to delve into music production.

Reporter Saiba Haque in conversation with music producer Peter Litchfield on the implications of the use of AI in the industry.

Today Tom Picillo reports on the news that the father of the 14-year-old girl, Molly Russell, has partnered with the mother of Brianna Ghey in an attempt to combat online harm.

This story concerns matters of death from self-harm and could be distressing for some people.

If you’ve been affected by this story then you can contact the Samaritans for free on 116 123.

Today Tom Picillo reports on the news that that the London Overground is undergoing a rebrand with each of its six lines being given a name and colour for the first time ever.

We also report on the disruption caused to the Central Line and the reasons behind it.

Today Tom Picillo reports on the news that an Israeli theatre-goer in London has said he was forced to leave a comedy show after being left feeling "unsafe".

We also report on the story that Sadiq Khan has told how deep fake audio of him supposedly making inflammatory remarks before Armistice Day almost caused serious disorder.

Today Tom Picillo reports on testing that is being done on London's new super sewer.

We also bring you the news that the Conservative MP for Romford, Andrew Rosindell, will face no further action after the Metropolitan police dropped an investigation into him.

Today, Tom Picillo reports on the story that the police watchdog has accused the Metropolitan Police of not doing enough to help children who are victims of exploitation.

We also hear that TfL has cracked down on fare dodging by prosecuting nearly 20,000 people for the offence, an increase of half compared to 2022.

Today, Tom Picillo reports on residents in Wembley who say they feel they’ve been left in the dark over how long repairs will take to their block of flats which were engulfed in a fire last month.

We also hear about the Conservative MP for Carshalton and Wallington, Elliot Colburn, who has told MPs how he attempted to take his own life in February 2021.

Be advised that this episode of the London News Briefing contains discussion on the topic of suicide so listener discretion is advised.

If you have been affected by the issues raised in this story, help and support is available from the Samaritans who you can call for free on 116 123.

Train stations epitomise the pace and urgency of city life. People pass through them with barely a thought to those around. While the piano at St Pancras International in London is well known, what do we actually understand about the impact of musical instruments and performances in public?

This podcast looks at how the piano’s presence at the train station can benefit our wellbeing; as individuals and as a city. With thanks to professor of musical psychology Daniel Müllensiefen from Goldsmith’s University.

Created, produced and edited by Rosabel Crean

Today, Tom Picillo reports on the fire near the Old Bailey in Central London.

We also cover the complaints over Transport for London's ULEZ adverts which were upheld by the Advertising Standards Authority.

The 1990s and 2000s saw a golden age for UK girlbands, with Spice Girls and Girls Aloud leading the charge. Caitlin Chatterton speaks to music journalist Daisy Carter and content producer Dani Murder about growing up at the height of the girlband era and why there are no comparable newcomers in 2024.

On today's London News Briefing Tom Picillo reports on the death of Esther Martin after what her daughter believes was an attack by XL bully dogs.

We also report on the death of Selena Lau and how her family are still searching for answers from the Metropolitan Police after her death at a Wimbledon school last year.

Do community choirs improve mental health? 

And can they help the 8% of Londoners experiencing “severe loneliness”? 

Recent studies suggest they might. 

Therapist Mike Amory, and “Some Voices Choir” members Izzy Hughes and Josh Barr join presenter Sophie Clark, to discuss what choirs, and community life in general, can do for us. 

Welcome to our three-part series, The Tatetrix where we will discuss the rise and fall of Andrew Tate in our media.

From psychologists to avid fans we've gathered perspectives from all over. Whether you love him, hate him or don't really care, join us for a journey into the controversial world of Andrew Tate.

In this episode, we investigate Andrew Tate's time in the limelight and how deeply he has influenced his followers and society. From classrooms to clickbait, his name is everywhere. Join us in episode 2, the Rise.

DISCLAIMER: Please be advised for the purpose of investigation and accurate portrayal of the topic, this episode includes explicit language and mentions of drug use, sexual assault, rape and suicide.

Host: Cymbeline Young

Producers: Cymbeline Young, Libby Jennings & Daniel Mulhern

Interviewee's: Lucy Russel, Angharad Morgan & Oliver Johnson

Link to Resisterhood events & Founder:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyrussellconsultant/?originalSubdomain=uk

Credits:

Andrew Tate soundbites in jingle:

https://youtube.com/shorts/KlcNJ3dGKds?si=T146p12mS8c-qrQW

https://youtu.be/V5aJFioY1pc?si=ztM_jJGUfqVpnAaL

https://youtube.com/shorts/-Q6F730Wa2g?si=E-insgHSGzNJUJDG

Andrew Tate content examples:

https://youtube.com/shorts/QzhDUc_0qLM?si=VTGcPLUr6Y1LIIjY

https://youtu.be/3Qb_0Vw4_t4?si=URdH89XXUfKpVfRF

Background music:

Matrix by Isaicm2012.

Welcome to our three-part series, The Tatetrix where we will discuss the rise and fall of Andrew Tate in our media.

From psychologists to avid fans we've gathered perspectives from all over. Whether you love him, hate him or don't really care, join us for a journey into the controversial world of Andrew Tate.

In this episode we will be diving into Andrew Tate's beginnings and rise to celebrity status. With the support of interviews we will also be discussing Tate's impact on society and the mainstream media.

DISCLAIMER: Please be advised for the purpose of investigation and accurate portrayal of the topic, this episode includes explicit language and mentions of drug use, sexual assault, rape and suicide.

Host: Daniel Mulhern

Producers: Daniel Mulhern, Libby Jennings and Cymbeline Young

Interviewees: Ramazani Mwamba and Logan McConnon

Credits:

Background music credit: Matrix by Isaicm2012

Andrew Tate soundbites in jingle:

https://youtube.com/shorts/KlcNJ3dGKds?si=T146p12mS8c-qrQW

https://youtu.be/V5aJFioY1pc?si=ztM_jJGUfqVpnAaL

https://youtube.com/shorts/-Q6F730Wa2g?si=E-insgHSGzNJUJDG

In this episode of the Southwest Londoner podcast, reporter Madeleine Anderson discusses the influence that the late poet and activist Benjamin Zephaniah had on the UK spoken word poetry scene.

For more news and analysis from Southwest Londoner visit swlondoner.co.uk or follow @SW_Londoner on X.

Welcome to The Power of Music podcast, in this three-part series we are aiming to uncover the true power of music from a variety of different perspectives.

Music is all around us and used by millions each day. Whether it’s on the daily commute, in the kitchen, or in the gym the presence of music is paramount.

So how is music being used for the mind and body, for society, and for brands? Tune in to find out!

In this episode, we explored the impact music has had politically and sociologically, such as the activist role music has had and the roles musicians have played in political decision-making.

Producers: Olly Loveland-Jones, Luci Bell, Chloe Chenery

Interviewees: Hannah McLennan, Interim Head of Music UK, and Les Back, Head of Sociology at Glasgow University.

Intro & Outro Music: I’ve got the power by Snap https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BRv9wGf5pk

The SWL Formula 1 Podcast is back for a brand new season, as we take a look at the opening 2023 races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

The team discusses Red Bull's dominance, the Aston Martin surprise, Ferrari and Mercedes underperforming, with a view to the Australian GP.

Hosted by Max Carter Keall along with Charlie Patrick, Alp Salfur and Alex Meechan.

The SWL Six Nations podcast returns to review the 2023 edition of the tournament, which saw Ireland win a Grand Slam and England limp to just two wins.

The panel discuss the controversial sending off of Freddie Steward as Ireland secured their third Six Nations Grand Slam and look at why some players struggle to live up to their club form in an England shirt. With Cam Stephens, Elise Hamersley, Oscar Ress and host George Simms.

With the first international break since the World Cup on the horizon, the South West Londoner previews the matches England and the Republic of Ireland play this month.

The road to Euro 2024 starts here…

With Aisling Hannon, Dom Smith, Matthew Cox, Oli Gent and host Ben Palmer.

Have you ever wanted to know what goes on behind the scenes of some of the UK’S leading industries? Well, this podcast explores exactly that, plunging into the troubles they face, their current achievements and finally their next steps.

In this three-part series, we will each be focusing on one of three sectors that are trying to overcome their failings in sustainability.

We will be speaking to multiple professionals at the forefront as well as people with outside perspectives, to hear what’s changing and what the future holds.

Producers: Jess Little, Julius Lawless-Master and Holly Brencher

In this episode, the team explore the theatre industry. This episode will explore one of the biggest industries and their problems. THEATRE! Today the industry is struggling more than ever after the Covid Pandemic, the pandemic caused a huge amount of change for the theatre. Ticket sales and pricing are the lifeblood of the industry. Trying to please the audience with reasonable ticket prices and provide a gob-stopping performance. And we will also explore how theatres are becoming more sustainable.

The guest featured in this episode is Paddy Dillon and April Hall.

Host: Holly Brencher

Have you ever wanted to know what goes on behind the scenes of some of the UK’s leading industries? Well, this podcast explores exactly that, plunging into the troubles they face, their current achievements and finally their next steps.

In this three part series, we will each be focusing on one of three sectors that are trying to overcome their failings in sustainability.

We will be speaking to multiple professionals at the forefront as well as people with outside perspectives, to hear what’s changing and what the future holds.

Producers: Jess Little, Julius Lawless-Master and Holly Brencher

In this episode the team explore the restaurant industry’s impact on the environment and the efforts it is making to become more sustainable. We will be exploring the current innovation taking place within this sector and speaking to experts about what still needs to be done to fix its problems.

Featuring interviews with Tom Hunt, a food educator, award-winning chef and author, and Douglas McMaster, the owner of Silo, the world’s first zero waste restaurant.

Host: Julius Lawless-Master

Have you ever wanted to know what goes on behind the scenes of some of the UK’s leading industries? Well, this podcast explores exactly that, plunging into the troubles they face, their current achievements and finally their next steps.

In this three part series, we will each be focusing on one of three sectors that are trying to overcome their failings in sustainability.

We will be speaking to multiple professionals at the forefront as well as people with outside perspectives, to hear what’s changing and what the future holds.

Producers: Jess Little, Julius Lawless-Master and Holly Brencher

In this episode the team explore the fashion industry and the negative impact it has on multiple factors such as the environment and labour workers. We will be looking at how these issues have managed to develop and speaking to experts about how the industry can adapt to become more sustainable and improve overall for the future.

Featuring interviews with Jay Kerr, an activist from the No Sweat campaign, and Trewin Restorick, the founding CEO of hubbub and environmental campaigner

Host: Jess Little

Welcome to our four-part podcast series, Paranormal Paranoia, where we uncover the dark history of London’s most haunted hotspots and investigate whether supernatural beings actually exist.

Is it the paranormal, or are you just paranoid?

**

In this episode, we dive into the haunting tales and dark past of the Clink, a medieval prison that stood on London’s southbank since the 12th century

**

Producers: Stuart Allen, Holly Nichols, Ruby Smith, Izabella Thornley

Interviews: Dr Drew Grey, Fiona Patterson

**

Outro music produced by Louie Zong (https://youtube.com/@everydaylouie)

Background music by PurplePlanet

Sound Effects by Pixabay

👻👻

Welcome to our four-part podcast series, Paranormal Paranoia, where we uncover the dark history of London’s most haunted hotspots and investigate whether supernatural beings actually exist.

Is it the paranormal, or are you just paranoid?

**

In this podcast episode we’ll be exploring the history of London Bridge from 64AD to the present day. Through these historical tales expect to learn why the bridge is a haunted place.

**

Producers: Ruby Smith, Stuart Allen, Holly Nichols, Izabella Thornley

Interviews: Henry Muller, Brian Laythe, Jillian Usher

**

Outro music produced by Louie Zong (https://youtube.com/@everydaylouie)

Background music by PurplePlanet

Sound Effects by Pixabay

👻👻

In this special edition of the Londoners Rugby Podcast, the team interviewed Red Roses Amy Cokayne and Lucy Packer about their experiences at the World Cup, what it's like being back at their club, and if they are any good at darts.

With Ben Fleming and Elise Hamersley.

In the second of the Londoners' World Cup quarter-final podcasts this week, our panel review Saturday's quarter-finals and throw-forward to tomorrow's second semi-final.

It was heartbreak for England, as Harry Kane's missed penalty proved decisive in their 2-1 defeat to France despite an overall strong performance from the Three Lions against Les Bleus. 

But it was jubilation for Morocco in the other quarter-final, as they became the first ever African side to reach the World Cup semi-finals as they saw off Portugal 1-0 thanks to a goal by Youssef En-Nesyri.

With Aisling Hannon, Ben Palmer, Dom Smith and host Ben Fleming.

In the first of two of the Londoners' World Cup quarter-final podcasts this week, our panel review Friday's quarter-finals and throw-forward to tonight's first semi-final. 

Both quarter-finals went to penalties, as Neymar's stunning goal wasn't enough for Brazil, as they crashed out to Croatia with the superstar forward in tears as he didn't get to take a penalty. 

Then, Argentina and the Netherlands fought on and off the field in an ill-tempered but enthralling 2-2 draw, that saw Lionel Messi's side make it through when it went to spot-kicks.

With Alex Meechan, Charlie Patrick, Oli Gent and host George Simms.

The Londoners reporter Stuart Allen is joined by performance psychologist Daniel Wheeler to preview the World Cup in Qatar. 

The pair discuss England's squad and chances, the impact the World Cup will have on players who are taking part and how injuries ahead of the World Cup will affect the tournament. 

The World Cup team are previewing Groups A and B ahead of the tournament's opening on Sunday - as hosts Qatar take on Ecuador before Senegal take on Netherlands. 

Then it's the turn of England and Wales, who face Iran and the USA respectively. 

The team predict who they think will qualify from two difficult groups to predict - with Senegal and Ecuador battling for qualification from Group A, and a wide-open field in Group B. 

With Alex Meechan, Cam Stephens, Charlie Patrick, Dom Smith and Oscar Ress.

The World Cup team preview Groups C and D ahead of the first matches on Tuesday, as Argentina face Saudi Arabia at 10am, Denmark battle Tunisia at 1pm, Mexico take on Poland at 4pm and France close the day against Australia. 

The panel previews the two groups and give their opinions on where they think the sides will finish in the group stage, while giving context to their squads and histories in the World Cup.

With Max Carter Keall, Patrick Ardill, Matt Cox and Ben Fleming

The Rugby World Cup team are back for one final podcast - as they look at the big stories from England's devastating 34-31 defeat at the hands of New Zealand. 

The panel look at the crucial decisions that cost the Red Roses, the brilliant lineout steal that won the match for the Black Ferns and what an ultimately exciting and successful tournament, which saw a record 42,579 sell-out Eden Park crowd for the final. 

With Ben Fleming, Elise Hamersley and James Moultrie.

The panel take on the Brazilian Grand Prix - the penultimate race of the Formula 1 season. 

It was a fun race, full of drama, as George Russell won the first race of his career, Max Verstappen clashed with teammate Sergio Perez and Kevin Magnussen took a surprise pole. 

With Alex Meechan, Alp Salfur, Charlie Patrick and host Max Carter Keall. 

With the second round of fixtures at the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand done and dusted, our panel looked at the big stories from the weekend in this special edition of the SWL rugby podcast.

England made it two wins out of two with a narrow 13-7 victory over their biggest pool rivals France, whilst Australia beat Scotland in a nail-biter and New Zealand thrashed Wales. 

With Ben Fleming, Elise Hamersley and James Moultrie.

The SWL boxing podcast digests the news from a huge weekend in boxing as Claressa Shields became undisputed middleweight champion by beating Savannah Marshall via unanimous decision.

Shields v Marshall headlined a major night of female-led boxing at the O2 Arena and the panel discuss not just the big fight but the other fights on the card, as well as some of the broader issues around the event including the future of women's boxing.

With Aisling Hannon, Oli Gent, Rachel Higgins and host Ben Fleming.

With the first round of fixtures at the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand done and dusted, our panel looked at the big stories from the weekend in this special edition of the SWL rugby podcast.

Favourites England got off to a record-breaking flier as they pummelled Fiji 84-19, hosts and defending champions New Zealand saw off Australia 41-17.

With Ben Fleming, Elise Hamersley and James Moultrie.

The SWL Formula 1 podcast returns and this week our panel tackles the Japanese Grand Prix.

Max Verstappen sealed his second World Championship title in controversial and confusing circumstances at a soaking wet Suzuka.

However, the real story was Pierre Gasly's near miss, eight years on from the death of Jules Bianchi in similar circumstances.

The panel also discuss the driver news of the week as Gasly was confirmed to fill the empty spot at Alpine.

With Alex Meechan, Alp Salfur, Charlie Patrick, and host Max Carter Keall.

The SWL Formula 1 podcast returns and our panel tackles the Singapore Grand Prix. 

Max Verstappen failed to win the World Championship after finishing seventh, but looks set to clinch the title in Japan this weekend. 

Elsewhere, the fight for second hots up, spots on teams for next year's competition are still there for the taking and there's a cost cap controversy brewing. 

With Alex Meechan, Alp Salfur, Charlie Patrick, and host Max Carter Keall.

With the Women's Cricket World Cup starting tomorrow and England the defending champions, SWL's Ollie Slack, Kit Shepard and George Lovatt discuss the tournament and construct two potential best XIs of the tournament. 

As the Six Nations moves into another two week break, SWL's Nick Powell, Ben Hart, Stefan Frost, Jess Tiplady and George Wilson round up the third week of fixtures and look at the state of play so far, as well as throwing ahead to the tournament's final two rounds.

In the third weekend of the tournament, France solidified their position as Grand Slam favourites, with a thumping 36-17 win away at Scotland, Ireland took advantage of an early red card and obscure rule to pummel 13-man Italy 57-6, and England held off Wales 23-19 at Twickenham to keep their own tournament hopes alive.