Hackney Podcast scoops two Radio Production Awards

Hackney resident Francesca Panetta, presenter and producer of the Hackney Podcast

Hackney resident Francesca Panetta has won two highly prestigious Radio Production Awards for her local online audio programme, the Hackney Podcast.

Now recognised as being among the best of British radio talent, the presenter and producer of the Hackney Podcast was named the best online producer and took the creative award at last Thursday’s event, organised by the principal body in the industry, the Radio Academy.

Francesca was the only nominee to take home two prizes.

“I’m delighted to have won these two awards – it’s not just recognition for Hackney, but a real boost for innovative online journalists everywhere,” Francesca said.

The newly created awards, launched by The Radio Academy and The Radio Independents Group, are designed to recognise and celebrate the work of UK-based radio and audio producers.

The judges said, “The winner has a great ear for textured audio, and strong journalistic nous.  Sound is used in multiple ways – from serious “talk radio” production to entertainment – often with interesting soundscapes, giving a rich texture to the productions.”

The Hackney Podcast was set up in 2008 by Panetta, senior audio producer at the Guardian.  The highly crafted monthly programmes are free to download, and feature an eclectic mix of politics, environmental issues and scenes from local life alongside cutting-edge art, literature and music.

Listen to the award-winning programme and full archive here.