Jay Blades praised for 'moving and inspiring' documentary on learning to read at 51

Jay Blades has been called "moving and inspiring" by those who watched his documentary on learning to read in his 50s.

The Repair Shop star bravely opened up on his lifelong struggle with literacy that saw him spend many years covering up his problems with reading.

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But in Wednesday night's BBC One documentary Jay Blades: Learning to Read at 51, he committed to tackling his reading skills and being able to read to his daughter.

Furniture restorer and TV presenter Blades tweeted: "Good morning all What did you think of my show last night? If you didn’t get to see it, @BBCiPlayer is the place you need to be."

The response was overwhelming, as one fan told him: "Jay, that took a lot of guts to admit that you couldn't read, and then to tell the world!! You have my utmost respect and I am sure your story will inspire many others to take that step and learn to read!"

Someone else replied: "Absolutely loved it & a subject close to heart. Great to see you reading to your daughter. She must be so proud of you. Great support from your partner & family also. Thank you for spreading key awareness. You are never too old.#WeBelieve"

Another viewer tweeted: "I thought it was moving, inspiring and courageous. I was moved to tears at your effort, honesty and humility. I may even consider volunteering to help people learn to read. Thank you."

The programme prompted many viewers to congratulate Blades on his bravery.

One person tweeted: "Fair play to Jay Blades. 51, has created a successful TV career whilst not being able to read. Very brave to document his learning to read journey on television."

Someone else agreed: "Full of admiration for Jay Blades. Opening up on national TV about his lifelong struggle with reading is incredibly brave, and will give many people in a similar situation the confidence to try and learn."

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Another viewer told Blades: "I thought it was incredibly brave . So many people can’t read and feel very embarrassed about it , and that stops them even asking for help . So for you to do this publicly to inspire others was just wonderful . Fantastic program you should feel very proud of yourself."

Someone else wrote: "I loved seeing your progress and how proud your daughter was when you read her the story. Such a brave thing to do. This will inspire so many people living with dyslexia. Total respect to you!"

Viewers also shared their own stories of struggles with reading, as one person tweeted: "Awesome, your so brave. I'm Dyslexic and I had a similar experience at school but one of the lucky ones that had parents that could afford for me to get help after I was diagnosed. I still hear very sadly that it still happens today in our schools. #myhero"

Someone else replied: "It was very moving and inspiring. Going to show it to my 10 yr old son who got diagnosed with dyslexia a year ago. Recognition of dyslexia is still poor as did not get help from school, had to go private. So those without the financial means will be going undiagnosed."

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