KentOnline today launches a brand new podcast aimed at bringing the latest political news to listeners across Kent.

The Kent Politics Podcast will feature key updates and analysis with expert hosts and high-profile guests.

It brings together local democracy reporters, Simon Finlay, Robert Boddy, Dan Esson and KM Media Group political editor Paul Francis.

Simon, who covers Kent County Council, will lead the discussions with contributions from Robert, who reports on Medway Council, and Dan, whose speciality is borough and district councils.

Paul will be bringing his weekly Westminster Watch review – highlighting what’s happening in parliament and how it affects the county.

The first guest is Dover and Deal Tory MP Natalie Elphicke who answers questions on a variety of subjects including small boats, the general election and local government funding.

Next week, we’ll be joined by Medway Council’s portfolio holder for housing and property, Labour’s Naushabah Khan.

She is aiming to become Gillingham and Rainham’s MP at the general election.

You can listen to the podcast at IM Listening, or download it from Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and TuneIn – just search for Kent Politics Podcast. New episodes are available each Friday.

It is the latest move to increase KentOnline’s political coverage ahead of a general election likely to be held later this year.

The KM Media Group’s Matt Ramsden said: “We’re delighted to launch the podcast. We have four experienced and well-connected journalists involved in bringing the very latest news and analysis to people across the county.

“In recent months we also launched bespoke sections on KentOnline highlighting Kent Politics and Medway Politics. Added to this is the highly-respected Kent Politics Show which airs on KMTV each Friday evening.

“This is all part of our continuing commitment to publish and broadcast news which truly matters to our readers, listeners and viewers.”