Inside Out West – The Fred West Confession: 25 Years On (March 3, 2019)

Join the discussion on the Fred & Rose West case: Reddit: FredAndRoseWest This special episode of Inside Out West reflects on the shocking events that gripped Gloucester and the world 25 years ago when Fred West confessed to murdering his daughter, Heather. Originally aired on BBC News on March 3, 2019, this documentary revisits the case that exposed one of the most horrifying serial murder investigations in British history. Key Topics Covered: Fred and Rose West’s Crimes: How the couple hid in plain sight while committing their horrific murders. The Confession: On February 25, 1994, Fred West admitted to murdering his daughter Heather, triggering a wider police investigation. Uncovering the Truth: How investigators discovered multiple victims buried at 25 Cromwell Street, the Wests’ former home, as well as other locations in Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. Media Coverage: Journalists who reported on the case share their experiences, including BBC Radio Gloucestershire's Alan Warcroft and Chris Summers from The Gloucester Citizen. The Impact on Gloucester: Community leaders, including former Gloucestershire Chief Constable Tony Butler and Canon Adrian Slade, discuss the long-lasting trauma felt by the city. Marian Partington’s Journey: Lucy Partington, one of Fred and Rose West’s victims, was missing for 20 years before her remains were found at 25 Cromwell Street. Her sister Marian shares her deeply personal journey towards understanding and forgiveness. The Trial and Aftermath: While Fred West took his own life in prison before facing trial, Rose West was convicted of ten murders and sentenced to life imprisonment. Interviews & Contributors: Alan Warcroft (BBC Radio Gloucestershire journalist who first covered the case) Chris Summers (The Gloucester Citizen reporter who broke early details of the investigation) Tony Butler (Former Gloucestershire Chief Constable) Canon Adrian Slade (Diocese of Gloucester, worked with the community post-investigation) Dame Janet Trotter (Former Lord-Lieutenant of Gloucestershire) Benedict Allen (Gloucester-born student reflecting on the city's legacy) Marian Partington (Sister of victim Lucy Partington, sharing her journey of grief and healing) Discussion Points: How Gloucester struggled to process such heinous crimes within its own community. The ethical debate around memorializing the victims versus avoiding unwanted attention. The lessons learned by law enforcement and social services regarding safeguarding and child protection. Marian Partington’s reflections on grief, forgiveness, and the importance of giving victims a voice. This episode sheds light on the personal and collective impact of one of the UK’s most disturbing criminal cases, 25 years after the shocking confessions of Fred West.