Young entrepreneur launches TV series showcasing Rotherham's hidden gems

Adam Widdowson, who has been working alongside quirky puppet Granny Norbag, was studying a degree in media, moving image and photography at University Centre Rotherham last year when he applied for the Children’s Capital of Culture traineeship programme.

The 23-year-old enjoyed a six-month paid traineeship at Wentworth Woodhouse building up his digital and film-making skills, completing it during his final semester at university where he achieved a first-class honours.

Adam said: “It was fantastic to get the opportunity to work with so many other talented young people doing their traineeships in Rotherham.

“I gained so much confidence and a brilliant work ethic through my traineeship, but most importantly, I made connections with people working in the creative sector.”

Adam is working part-time at Wentworth Woodhouse as a digital projects officer.

“When I attended the Children’s Capital of Culture Manifesto launch as part of my role, I met Mal (Malcolm J. Hogan) the man behind Granny Norbag,” he explained.

"This is a sketch series that I’m filming, which will be shot across multiple locations in Rotherham,” he added.

Malcolm is the creator and award-winning songwriter behind Granny Norbag — the Yorkshire puppet and star of children’s picture books, music videos, songs, podcasts and theatre shows.

The singing pensioner will launch her first TV series on YouTube this autumn. 

As well as Wentworth Woodhouse, the show will also feature Magna Science Adventure Centre, Clifton Park Museum and Rotherham Civic Theatre.

Granny Norbag, AKA Malcolm, said: “Working with Adam has been a fantastic experience for me.”