Burnley teen who appeared on Freddie Flintoff's hit TV show to launch his own podcast

The Next Gen podcast is the idea of Presley Pennington (18) who was one of the lads sporting legend Freddie invited to form a cricket team in the third series of his show. And Presley has already landed himself a sponsor for the podcast.

Presley was part of a team formed in Manchester who faced tough odds including a lack of players and a ground that was not fit for purpose.

Presley found not only TV ‘fame’ but also a love of the game that he never expected. And he has since gone on to become a qualified cricket coach.

Last summer Presley, who is a former student at Blessed Trinity RC College, shed two stone and increased his fitness level by taking part in a variety of different activities including part in the Help for Heroes Weighted Walk challenge which involved walking 150 miles in, carrying a weighted backpack containing at least 12.5 kilos.

Now working part time at Prairie Sports Village, Presley came up with the idea of a podcast to speak about the struggles and challenges he has faced growing up. But he also wants to encourage his peers to open up about their problems and issues.

Presley said: “The podcast is about talking and telling the truth. I know I’m not the only one who has been through many things. I want the podcast to be for the next generation, for young people who feel misunderstood, written off or unsure of their path.

“I want to have real conversations about growth, mindset, pressures young people face, and turning setbacks into strength and success.”

He is now keen to hear from anyone who wishes to take part in The Next Gen. He said: “Struggles, successes, any stories young people have, I want to hear them. I want this platform to be bigger than just me.”

Anyone who would like to help, or take part, is asked to contact Presley via email at [email protected]