Made In Medway

In August, Rochester Cathedral welcomed a remarkable visitor – the Short Scion aircraft, a symbol of Medway’s proud aviation heritage. But behind the aircraft lies a far greater story: the story of the Short Brothers, their factories at the Seaplane Works and Rochester Airport, and the people whose lives they shaped.In this episode of Made In Medway, Dr Chris de Coulon Berthoud and Rob Flood uncover the social history of Shorts:• The women who stepped into the factories during wartime• The apprentices who learned their trades and carried those skills throughout their lives• The sports clubs, social activities, and friendships that created a community far beyond the factory gatesEighty years after the company left Medway, the legacy of the Short Brothers continues to inspire pride, curiosity, and connection.The Short Scion at Rochester Cathedral is a story not just of aircraft, but of people – and of a company that helped shape the identity of the Medway Towns.***Full list of sound creditsMusic: In The Dark Flashes - Jess Stacy

Made in Medway is a podcast dedicated to capturing the lived experiences, memories, and voices of the Medway Towns’ diverse communities. Hosted by Robert Flood and Dr Christopher de Coulon Berthoud each episode explores personal stories that illuminate the area’s cultural heritage, diaspora histories, industrial past, and ever-changing social landscape.From factory floors and shipyards to high-streets, faith spaces, and front rooms, the podcast brings together the voices that make the Medway Towns unique. Through thoughtful interviews and careful storytelling, Robert and Chris aim to preserve local histories, tackle social isolation, and champion the voices often missing from the historical record.New episodes feature contributors from across Medway, sharing memories, insights, and reflections. Made in Medway is an Oral History Medway podcast.Join us as we celebrate the Medway Towns, one story at a time.***Music: In The Dark Flashes - Jess Stacy