100 Years of Stoke-on-Trent: New Vodcast Series Celebrates the City

A unique vodcast series has launched as part of Stoke-on-Trent's centenary celebrations

Voices of the City

Celebrated playwright Deborah McAndrew features in the first episode

This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on how far Stoke-on-Trent has come and to celebrate the people and industries that have made it such a unique place. At University of Staffordshire, we are proud to be part of this project, which brings our community together to celebrate the past and inspire the future.

Martin Jones, Vice-Chancellor of University of Staffordshire

Stoke-on-Trent City Council, University of Staffordshire, and Cross Rhythms City Radio are proud to announce the launch of a unique vodcast series as part of the city’s centenary celebrations.

This series, titled ‘Stoke-on-Trent 100 - Voices of the Centenary’ will spotlight the rich heritage, vibrant culture, and inspiring individuals who have shaped the city over the past 100 years.

The vodcast, available on YouTube, will feature a variety of guests sharing their personal connections to Stoke-on-Trent, their favourite aspects of the city, and their hopes for its future. The project aims to celebrate the spirit of the Potteries while looking ahead to the next century of growth and innovation.

Guests will reflect on their connection to the city and share their wishes for its future, making this vodcast a heartfelt celebration of Stoke-on-Trent’s legacy and potential.

Jane Ashworth, Leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “Marking 100 years as a city is a significant achievement. This vodcast is a creative and meaningful way to celebrate the resilience, creativity, and community spirit of Stoke-on-Trent. We’re excited to see how it inspires pride and connection across the city.”

Martin Jones, Vice-Chancellor of University of Staffordshire, highlighted the importance of the centenary, saying: “This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on how far Stoke-on-Trent has come and to celebrate the people and industries that have made it such a unique place. At University of Staffordshire, we are proud to be part of this project, which brings our community together to celebrate the past and inspire the future.”

The vodcast’s engaging format will include recurring segments such as Potteries Perspectives, where guests share their thoughts on what makes Stoke-on-Trent special, and Cop owd ‘o That, a feature where guests bring a personal item that represents the city’s significance in their lives.

Jonathan Bellamy, CEO of Cross Rhythms Radio, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating: “Stoke-on-Trent has an incredible story to tell, and this vodcast will give voice to those stories. We’re honoured to use our studio and platform to showcase the people and places that make this city so special, while also looking forward to the next 100 years of progress.”

The project also highlights the city’s collaborative spirit, with organisations working together to celebrate this historic occasion. Recording will take place at Cross Rhythms City Radio studios in Hanley, with the first episode featuring Deb McAndrew, celebrated playwright and proud advocate for Stoke-on-Trent’s cultural scene.

Deb’s deep connection to the city and its heritage provide an inspiring perspective as part of this special centenary series.

To view the vodcast, visit: Stoke-on-Trent 100: Voices of the City - YouTube

Latest news


Two smiling women standing together with one holding a framed certificate

Outstanding Staffordshire students receive Chief Nursing Officer awards

Two University of Staffordshire nursing apprenticeship students have been recognised for going above and beyond at a surprise NHS awards ceremony

A large group of people in front of a building, underneath a sign that reads 'The Catalyst'

Teaching Excellence Awards 2026 recognise outstanding University of Staffordshire educators

A pioneering lecturer and an exceptional teaching team at University of Staffordshire have received one of UK higher education's highest honours

A group of adults smiling in a classroom setting

University of Staffordshire climbs 39 places in national student satisfaction survey

Postgraduate taught students have rated their University of Staffordshire experience higher than ever

for Career Prospects

Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2025

for Social Inclusion

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

for First Generation Students

The Mail University Guide 2026

in the UK for Games Education

Rookies Games Design and Development 2023, 2025

TIGA Best Games Institution 2024, 2025

of Research is “Internationally Excellent” or “World Leading”

Research Excellence Framework 2021

of Research Impact is ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Very Considerable’

Research Excellence Framework 2021