Ask for Angela: 10 years of safer nights out

February 27, 2026·10 min·1 clip

Hannah Spencer, a plumber and local councillor, shocks Labour to win the Gorton and Denton by-election for the Green Party.

The episode opens with the Green Party's unexpected victory in the Gorton and Denton by-election, where Hannah Spencer, a local councillor and plumber, won with a majority of over 4,400 votes. Prime Minister Sakir Starmer admits it's a disappointing result for Labour, while Reform UK complains about 'family voting' allegations. The show then shifts to the 10th anniversary of the 'Ask for Angela' safety scheme, which started in the Strait and Marrow bar in Lincoln and went global within a month. Reporter Cara Bostock speaks with Jez Nash about the scheme's impact. Next, the episode revisits the Ukrainian refugee crisis, with reporter Martha Tipper reconnecting with 19-year-old Nastia, whom she hosted three years ago. Nastia describes life in West Ukraine with frequent power outages. The Brit Awards in Manchester are previewed, with reporter Oliver Morgan getting a backstage sneak peek and tasting Manchester tart. The 25th anniversary of the Selby rail disaster is covered, with chief reporter Kathy Green at the memorial garden and Tony Thompson of British Transport Police recalling the scene. Professor David Tollerton discusses the lack of COVID-19 memorials, noting a plaque in Exeter was buried and forgotten until dug up in 2024. The episode concludes with Jake Gyllenhaal talking about being directed by his sister, Maggie, on his new movie 'The Bride'. The show wraps up by directing listeners to news pages and podcast platforms.

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