Hidden East London Stories Resurface in Award-Nominated Podcast

Now in its third season, the acclaimed podcast The Hackney and Newham Social History Club continues to uncover the rich stories of East Londoners, in their own words. Produced by Immediate Theatre in partnership with Hackney and Newham Archives, the series has grown into a powerful platform for local voices and shared history.

What began as an oral history project has become a celebrated podcast series, capturing stories of migration, memory, fashion, family, and identity. With support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The latest season, Same Streets, Different Lives, centres on the rediscovered photo collection of Bandele “Tex” Ajetunmobi, a Nigerian-British tailor and street photographer who quietly documented life in East London from the 1940s to the 1980s. His portraits, once nearly lost, now hang in institutions like the Tate and Autograph, thanks to the work of his niece, Victoria Loughran.

“These were ordinary working-class people — and he made them look like glamorous models.” — Victoria Loughran, in The Hackney and Newham Social History Club

Each episode weaves personal recollections with cultural and historical insight, from shubeens and sari shops to family businesses and community resilience. It’s a celebration of local life told by those who lived it — RAF veterans, market traders, activists, tailors, and storytellers.

“When people start talking about things that matter, it unlocks something. These producers shape your memories into stories that other people want to hear. Isn’t that remarkable?” — Judy Frumin, series participant

Hosted by Sue Elliott‑Nicholls, and produced by Immediate Theatre’s experienced team, the series has earned award nominations and growing national recognition.

“This is everything we hoped for when we started — real stories, honestly told, and preserved for generations to come.” — Jo Carter, Founder & Artistic Director, Immediate Theatre

The full archive of The Hackney and Newham Social History Club is available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, Pocket Casts, and all major platforms.