In this episode we explore one of Bedford's most famous hauntings. A folktale so well known it gave it's name to an area of the town. What is now a rather unassuming roundabout just north of Bedford town centre, known locally as Black Tom's Grave, was once a place of fear. Was a highwayman executed on that site? Does his restless spirit still wander beneath the trees there? Why are there so many paranormal reports in that small area of Bedford? And who is the shadowy figure often reported along side the spectre of Black Tom?
We also look at other myths and legends attached to highwaymen with connections to Bedfordshire including Biggleswade and beyond. Why do so many of us love a highwayman story and footpad phantom?
Visit the Weird in the Wade blog to see photos, sources and show transcript.
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Weird in the Wade is researched, written and presented by Nat Doig
Theme Music by Tess Savigear
All additional music and sound effects Epidemic Sound
15. Weird Wanders Two: My night in York's Most Haunted Inn
14. Weird Wanders One: Blind George Ghost of Anstey
13. Ghostly Crime Part 2: Biggleswade Body Snatchers and Things That Go Bump in the Night
12. Ghostly Crime Part One: Murder Bridge, Thomas Dun and a Chat with Eerie Edinburgh
Bonus Episode: Facing my Demons at the Black Magic Church
10. The Ghosts of St Mary’s Old Church
9. The Black Magic Church
Bonus Episode: More Big Cats of Bedfordshire and Beyond
8. The Most Haunted Pub in Biggleswade
7. The Big Cat of Biggleswade and Phantom Felines
6. The Potton Poisoner: Part 3
5. The Potton Poisoner: Part Two
4. The Potton Poisoner: Part One
Bonus Episode: Updates, News and a New Spooky Story
3. What’s Haunting Potton Wood?
Bonus Episode: Luton’s Noontide Hag
2) Flying Saucers Over Biggleswade
Bonus Mini Episode: The Silsoe Grey Lady
Bonus Episode: The Great Fire of Biggleswade, New Evidence.
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