Free Turn podcast murder mystery COLD TAPES draws to a close - Listeners have just over 6 weeks to crack the case for the chance to win £10,000

Today Free Turn releases the penultimate episode of COLD TAPES,the innovative audio drama that combines the twists and turns of a ‘real-life’ murder investigation with the challenge and enjoyment of a murder mystery game. COLD TAPES breaks traditional podcast formats by presenting a cache of seemingly unedited or raw audio files, creating an unexplored world for the listener to immerse themselves in and, in a unique twist, challenging them to piece together the clues they hear to solve the crime at the heart of the story.

Set against the backdrop of Antarctica’s six-month Winter Over, which is marked by perpetual darkness and isolation, the story delves into the intertwined lives and claustrophobic relationships of a small group of international scientists and crew stationed on a remote research base, Bowers Wilson. In addition to the pressure posed by the extreme conditions, the research station crackles with sexual tension, unexplained mysterious psychotic events, hidden criminal pasts, and strange global conspiracy theories, thrusting any wannabe detectives into a gripping narrative surrounding the mysterious death of a 33-year-old behavioural scientist Andrew Fairfield.

Listeners join the diligent and obsessive DCI Tessa McCallister, as she works through the night and against the clock to spearhead the subsequent police investigation from the UK and achieve the seemingly impossible task of solving a murder from over 9,000 miles away. To crack the case, budding detectives will need a keen attention to detail and acute listening skills as well as a curious and analytical mind, as they explore hours of meticulously crafted audio content, featuring the victim’s audio diaries, secret recordings, police interviews and other compelling evidence.

Those who correctly identify the culprit can enter a competition to be in with a chance of winning the esteemed title of British Super Sleuth 2025, which will be awarded at Crime Con 2025, as well as a £10,000 cash prize. The competition to solve the case closes at 11pm on Friday 21st, February 2025.

For a one-off payment of £5.00 listeners can binge the series ad-free, as well as access exclusive additional content and a ticket to enter the competition. Payment can be made at www.coldtapes.com

Sian Williams, a Producer at Free Turn and the show’s Director says: “For anyone who loves nothing more than a new binge-able true-crime podcast, and simultaneously fancies their chance at solving a complex and intriguing crime, COLD TAPES is for them. We’ve brought the authenticity of a real life police investigation together with the unique experience and soundscape of an Antarctic research base to create something immersive and totally addictive.”

Gemma Batterby, COO and Founder of Free Turn adds: “COLD TAPES delivers an experience that will have you glued to your earbuds. This is more than a podcast; it’s a cerebral challenge and an intricate puzzle, an opportunity for listeners to showcase their analytical prowess and potentially emerge as the sharpest amateur detective, claiming both bragging rights and a substantial cash prize.”

In the making of the series, Free Turn collaborated with a number of professionals to develop the script and storyline, including police officers, polar adventurers, and researchers to ensure an authentic experience with meticulous attention to detail regarding life in Antarctica and police investigative procedures.

All details of the competition, including the terms and conditions can be accessed via the official website.