Sky’s “Hold the Front Page” sees comedians Josh Widdicombe and Nish Kumar embark on an unusual mission: to become local newspaper journalists. In each episode, the duo visits a different local newspaper, immersing themselves in the community and attempting to find real local stories worthy of the front page.
The series follows Widdicombe and Kumar as they tour the newsrooms of six regional titles owned by National World, including The Westmorland Gazette, Blackpool Gazette, West Sussex Gazette, Yorkshire Post, Farming Life, and Northamptonshire Telegraph.
In the episode featuring The Westmorland Gazette, Widdicombe and Kumar investigate the mysterious Beast of Cumbria, attend the World Gurning Competition, and get star-struck by boyband East 17. They also explore local legends and unusual traditions, showcasing the unique charm of Cumbria beyond its stunning landscapes.
“Hold the Front Page” offers a blend of comedy and factual entertainment as the comedians navigate the challenges of local journalism. Their experiences provide a behind-the-scenes look at the world of local news, highlighting the hard work and dedication of journalists in an industry facing increasing pressures.
While the series has a light-hearted tone, it also underscores the importance of local journalism and the role it plays in communities. The comedians themselves acknowledged the difficulties of the profession, expressing surprise at the small newsroom teams and the high expectations placed on reporters.
Hold the Front Page: Cumbria – The Westmoreland Gazette airs Wednesday 1 May 2024 at 9.00pm on Sky Max.
