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In Detail...

BBC Local Radio
Birmingham Pub Bombings
IRA
Birmingham Six
Birmingham
Chris Mullin
Paddy Hill
Pub Bombings
Inquest
West Midlands Police
Public Inquiry
Julie
London
James Mcdade
BBC
Forensic Testing
Police Brutality
Miscarriage Of Justice
Brian
Terrorism Act Of 1974
1974

Exploring and explaining news stories from across England.

Series 5: Sanctuary: An Act of Defiance Viraj Mendis from Sri Lanka begs for sanctuary in an Ascension church. The vicar, Father John Methuen, agrees to protect him defying Thatcher's government.

Previously on In Detail...

Series 1. The Pub Bombings Exploring the impact of two Birmingham pub bombs in a 50 year evolving story.

Series 2. The... more

PublishesTwice weeklyEpisodes44Foundeda year ago
Number of ListenersCategories
Personal JournalsHistorySociety & Culture

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Latest Episodes

Karen plots Viraj’s escape from Sri Lanka and finds a new home for them both in Germany.

A new posting in Yorkshire proves troubling for Father John.

Viraj’s friend Charlie Baker finds some peace after his experience in Sri Lanka.

Presenter: Fathe... more

Viraj is deported to Sri Lanka despite his supporters’ best efforts to stop the plane.

One friend, Charlie Baker, is determined to show the world the dangers by risking his own life.

Karen makes a life changing decision when she joins Viraj in Sri ... more

Viraj and his supporters’ worst nightmare comes true when Greater Manchester Police carry out a dawn raid on the church and take him away.

Father John is left broken and picking up the pieces.

Father Azariah meets the woman who stayed by Viraj’s si... more

Tempers fray and the church is attacked. In a fiery sermon, Father John says the Church trumps the State and Viraj is staying.

The Viraj Mendis Defence Campaign begin weekly protests on the streets of Manchester testing Greater Manchester Police, in... more

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Recent Guests

Karen Mendis
Viraj's wife who provided insight into their journey and the sanctuary story.
Episode: 4. The Raid
Bridget Methuen
Wife of Father John and a witness to the events unfolding in their home
Episode: 2. Inside the Sanctuary
Chris Proctor
Founding member of the Viraj Mendis Defence Campaign
Episode: 2. Inside the Sanctuary
Viraj Mendis
A man from Sri Lanka who imprisoned himself in a Manchester church for sanctuary.
Episode: Introducing... Sanctuary: An Act of Defiance
Father John Methuen
Vicar who supported Viraj Mendis and offered him sanctuary in the church.
Episode: Introducing... Sanctuary: An Act of Defiance
John Everett
Former member of the Jesus Army and primary narrator of his experiences
Episode: 2. Genesis
Kevin Donald
Print journalist sent to cover the news of the tree felling and its aftermath.
Episode: 2. The Accusations
Walter Renwick
A local farmer and lumberjack accused of felling the Sycamore Gap tree.
Episode: 2. The Accusations
Michael Burke
Experienced journalist covering related incidents.
Episode: 8. The Naming of the Bombers

Hosts

Si King
A prominent host and presenter known for engaging storytelling. Si King provides in-depth insights into the themes covered, exploring the emotional and social ramifications of the stories.
George Taylor
Host involved in sharing personal narratives and experiences related to the podcast's topics, and highlighted for his contributions in examining the emotional aspects of the stories.
Annabel Amos
Co-host offering valuable insights and fostering discussions around the topics presented, contributing to a rich narrative in the episodes.

Reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars from 44 ratings
  • What a story!

    Absolutely brilliant story. Gripping with great sound design 👍

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Andrew Bow
    United Kingdoma month ago
  • Great and very interesting story

    I found this season and story to be exciting, well-researched, and well-done. It was so fascinating that I binge-listened to it over only a couple of days.

    As an aside, I can't help but wonder if the negative reviews that have been left for this podcast were from ex or current Jesus Army members or someone affiliated with them.

    It's definitely worth a listen.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Jewels2025
    United States2 months ago
  • Excellent podcast

    Extraordinary events retold with compassion. Excellent journalism. A really compelling account.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Mrs Mackerel
    United Kingdom7 months ago
  • Both seasons

    Really enjoyed and learned alot.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    bunnykeeper
    Canada7 months ago
  • Absorbing

    Could not stop listening. A compelling account of a very complicated story told in a really digestible way. Excellent journalism from the BBC. Well done Ed Barlow.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Bluebirds1977
    United Kingdoma year ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

The clarity and insightful analysis offered by the hosts have been highlighted as a strong factor in the podcast's appeal.
There are numerous positive comments regarding the emotional depth and community-focused narratives that resonate with audiences.
Listeners appreciate the exceptional journalism and compelling storytelling that brings complex issues to light.

Chart Rankings

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Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

5. Back to Sri Lanka
Q: What was the impact of Viraj's deportation on his safety?
Viraj feared for his life upon returning to Sri Lanka, although initially, he was not arrested on arrival.
5. Back to Sri Lanka
Q: What did Karen decide to do when Viraj was deported?
Karen decided to leave Sri Lanka and seek asylum in another country for both of them.
5. Back to Sri Lanka
Q: What was the general danger of being in Sri Lanka in 1989?
Sri Lanka was experiencing a violent insurgency, and many people went missing or were killed extrajudicially.
6. Justice
Q: What would the punishment be for felling the tree at Sycamore Gap?
Public sentiment suggests a desire for a custodial sentence or community service to compensate for the tree's loss.
6. Justice
Q: What do you think your readers think about this story here in the UK? Why are you here this morning?
William Booth comments on the divided opinions about the incident, highlighting that some find it hilarious while others are very depressed by it.

Audience Metrics

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Listeners per Episode
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Location
Interests
Professions
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Household Income
Social Media Reach

Frequently Asked Questions About In Detail...

What is In Detail... about and what kind of topics does it cover?

The episodes offer an in-depth exploration of significant and controversial events across England, with a particular focus on the historical and societal implications of these stories. Key themes include the rise and fall of the Jesus Army, a radical Christian community that sparked numerous discussions around cult dynamics and abuse; the fallout from environmental issues related to toxic waste in Corby; and the emotional and communal impact of the destruction of the beloved Sycamore Gap tree. Utilizing personal testimonies and investigative storytelling, the content raises critical questions about community, justice, and the aftermath of tragedy, making it both a compelling and thought-provoking listen for those interested in societal issu... more

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In Detail... launched a year ago and published 44 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on In Detail...?

Recent guests on In Detail... include:

1. Karen Mendis
2. Bridget Methuen
3. Chris Proctor
4. Viraj Mendis
5. Father John Methuen
6. John Everett
7. Kevin Donald
8. Walter Renwick

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