BBC Local podcast The Forgotten Dead returns with powerful new episode from the North West

BBC Local’s critically acclaimed investigative podcast The Forgotten Dead returns with a powerful new episode that uncovers the next chapter in a story that has gripped listeners across the UK.

Listeners first met Matthew in the previous series, when he contacted BBC journalist and series presenter Jane Wilkinson after hearing about her long-running investigation into the body of an unidentified woman found in a Bolton cellar in 1982.

Matthew had lived for five decades with the heartbreak of his mother’s disappearance. She vanished from Bolton in 1974, leaving her three young sons in the care of relatives. He was just three years old.

Growing up, Matthew had no memory of his mum, no understanding of why she left, and for years the family barely spoke of her. Convinced the unidentified woman – known only as “Mary Ellen” - might be his mother, he turned to The Forgotten Dead team for help.

The investigation proved the cellar victim was not Matthew’s mum, but the podcast became a catalyst for Matthew’s search.

Jane stayed in touch with him, offering guidance and support as he tried to piece together what had happened. He then got the phone call no one expected - his mum had been found and she was alive.

In this new episode, listeners will hear the astonishing story of their reunion and, for the first time, will hear from Matthew’s mum herself.

Her story is one of violence, guilt and survival, but also a tale of forgiveness and hope.

Mother and son talk about their reunion in an intimate, deeply moving conversation about separation, resilience, and what it means to rediscover family after half a century apart.

To protect the family’s privacy, Matthew’s mum and his brothers are not being named.

Jane Wilkinson, presenter of The Forgotten Dead, says: "This is an amazing story. What we thought was going to be a tragedy, the sad ending to a 50‑year‑old mystery – has turned into a story of hope and forgiveness. A true reconciliation between a mother and son.

“I’ve had the privilege of having a front seat to that reunion. And, in a small way, of even helping to make it happen. I’m so grateful to Matthew and his mum for allowing me in.”

Chris Burns, Head of Local Audio Commissioning, says: “This is storytelling at its most human. Matthew’s reunion with his mum is incredibly moving and gives a voice to people, who might otherwise never be heard.”

BBC Local’s original homegrown stories, including our true crime and topical podcasts, are rooted in the diverse communities of England and are available on BBC Sounds.

The Forgotten Dead’s new episode is available now on BBC Sounds