Actor Will Mellor, known for his role in the ITV drama “Mr Bates Vs The Post Office,” takes a deep dive into the real-life stories of sub-postmasters affected by the infamous Post Office scandal in a new documentary titled “Surviving The Post Office.” The program is set to premiere on BBC One and will also be available as a five-part podcast series on BBC Sounds.
In the documentary, Mellor will speak with Lee Castleton, whom he portrayed in the ITV drama, as well as four other individuals and their families whose lives were devastated by the scandal. The series promises to be an emotional journey through East Yorkshire, County Durham, Lincolnshire, West Sussex, and Cornwall, where Mellor discovers how many sub-postmasters are striving to reclaim their lives.
“Surviving The Post Office” offers a mix of troubling and liberating narratives as some participants face their past while others embrace the future. Will Mellor shared his experiences of making the documentary, noting the profound impact the scandal has had on the health, families, and communities of those involved. “What shocked me most after meeting so many sub-postmasters is just how far the impact and trauma has spread,” said Mellor.
The documentary will also highlight the personal stories of those like Lee Castleton, who is determined to move past the anger and enjoy life again, and Stephanie Gibson, a former Post Office worker from County Durham who was accused of theft. Gibson’s powerful story of ostracization and isolation culminates in a poignant return to her old neighbourhood, confronting her past with unexpected results.
The Post Office has since apologized for the ordeal many have suffered, and a public inquiry into the scandal continues, with the compensation expected to exceed £1 billion. “Surviving The Post Office” aims not only to shed light on these injustices but also to explore the emotional recovery and support that have surfaced in unexpected ways.
Surviving The Post Office” will air on Monday, July 22, at 8:30 PM on BBC One. Viewers can also catch the series on BBC iPlayer or follow the companion podcast on BBC Sounds under ‘The Post Office Scandal.
