On Saturday 5th August 2023 it will be 180 years since the execution of Sarah Dazley the Potton Poisoner, she was hanged outside Bedford Gaol in front of 10,000 people.

The haunting of a pretty cottage ties to the story of the Potton Poisoner. A murder case that was a Victorian sensation. Scandalising a nation, and still fascinating true crime enthusiasts today. Should Sarah Dazley, dubbed the Potton Poisoner by Victorian press, be known as the UKs first recorded female serial killer? Or is she innocent? The story is murkier and more twisty than a penny dreadful or melodrama.

In Part One, of this three part story, I'll tell you the ghost story that links to Sarah Dazley, and all about the life of the poisoner and her victims. 

Please be advised that although this case is 180 years old it deals with the issues of murder, domestic abuse and infant death. Please choose carefully when and where you want to listen.

Got any thoughts or suggestions? Email the show at [email protected]

Find links to the podcast website and socials here: https://linktr.ee/weirdinthewade

The podcast is researched, written and presented by Nat Doig

Theme music and the Potton Poisoner theme by Tess Savigear

Additional crowd voices by Savigear and McOwen

All other music and sound effects Epidemic Sound