The Scotsman

Former rugby star Burrow to read Cbeebies story using a computer

- By NAOMI CLARKE

Former rugby league player Rob Burrow, who uses a computer to talk after being diagnosed with motor neurone disease, will make history when he reads a Cbeebies Bedtime Story using special technology.

The ex- leeds rhino and great Britain scrum-half, 40, will read Tom Percival's Tilda Tries Again-about a girl who suddenly finds her world changed and things that were once easy more challengin­g - on Internatio­nal Day of persons with disabiliti­es.

The news comes just days after the death of Scotland and Melrose rugby legend Doddie Weir, who passed away at the age of 52 after battling MND for five years. a service was recently announced for Mel rose Parishchur­ch on monday, december 19.

Burrow will read an inspiratio­nal tale about how Tilda finds a new way to approach her problems - and believe in herself.

It will be the first time on the BBC children's show a story is read using the special eye-controlled gear, which is able to recreate a version of Burrow's Yorkshire accent.

The sports star, diagnosed in 2019, said: "I used to love reading to my own children as part of their bedtime routine. I was so excited and honoured to be given the opportunit­y to read a Cbeebies Bedtime Story. Reading and literacy are so important.it doesn' t matter what your disability is, reading is accessible to everyone.

"Anyone can enjoy reading and develop a love of books and bed time stories, just like me and my family."

Burrow was accompanie­d into the Cbeebies studio by his wife Lindsey and two of the pair's children, Maya, seven, and Jackson, three.

The youngsters directed their father from the TV gallery, helped count down and shouted "action" when the cameras started rolling.

Bur row will follow in the footsteps of England and Tottenham striker Harry Kane, who appeared on the popular show in October.

Singer Harry Styles, Captain America star Chris Evans, Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl and British actor Tom Hiddl est on have also appeared oncbeebie sB ed time Stories.

 ?? ?? ↑ Rob Burrow will read a bedtime story on Saturday
↑ Rob Burrow will read a bedtime story on Saturday

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