A city news website has launched a podcast series aimed at Urdu speakers on its patch.

Peterborough Matters has launched the series as part of its regular ‘Peterborough Natters’ podcast.

The podcasts are put together by reporter and Urdu speaker Shariqua Ahmed, pictured, and are aimed at Peterborough’s significant Asian community.

They will initially be released on alternate Thursdays by the Archant-owned site.

Chief reporter John Baker told HTFP: “Our podcasts have been well-received so far, but we always had it in the back of our mind to see how we could expand the offering further.

“Peterborough has a substantial Asian population where English is not their first language, particularly in the older generations.

“We thought that if we put together a brief package of tailored small stories, in the same location every week, it might soon become a useful tool for them.

“We are lucky that we have a talented reporter in Shariqua, who has been fantastic in finding stories within our different communities since we launched six months ago. She speaks four languages which also helps.”

John went on to tout an increase in the frequency of the podcasts – and the possibility of producing episodes in other languages.

He added: “We may tweak the format depending on popularity – our main method of spreading the pod will be through word of mouth.

“So far Peterborough has been very positive about the idea, and this has been shared by local councillors, which is very pleasing.

“We’re hoping that not only people from Peterborough will listen to it, but that it might also inspire other news sites across the country to take the plunge.

“If it is successful we may go from fortnightly to weekly, and maybe even look at some more languages.”