Rob Delaney hosts first ever CBeebies Bedtime Story in sign language in memory of son

Rob Delaney is set to deliver the first ever CBeebies Bedtime Story in sign language, which he used to communicate with his son Henry who died earlier this year.

The comedian and actor will read and sign Ten In The Bed by Penny Dale using Makaton, a language programme that helps with communication, including for people with learning difficulties.

Catastrophe star Delaney used Makaton with his son Henry, who died in January at the age of two after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Delaney said: "My family loves to read together so naturally we're fans of CBeebies Bedtime Stories.

"I am beyond honoured to be the first person to read and sign a book using the Makaton language.

"Our family learned Makaton to be able to communicate with our son Henry, who couldn't speak due to a tracheotomy.

"We're sad Henry isn't here to see it but we're happy other families will get to enjoy a story told in Makaton."

Makaton is designed to help hearing people to communicate, using a mixture of signs and symbols as well as speech. The dialect differs from British Sign Language which is the language of the death community with its own word order, grammar and regional variations.

Delaney is the latest name to be added to the list of celebrities that have appeared on the show including Orlando Bloom, Ewan McGregor, Tom Hardy, Sir Elton John and Chris Evans.

Earlier this year Bloom revealed he would appear on screens to read We Are Together, a colourful children’s book written by Britta Teckentrup, celebrating the importance of love and friendship

Speaking about the episode, Pirates of the Caribbean actor Bloom said: “Through my travels as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador I’ve met children in countries all over the world, and witnessed firsthand how storytelling between adults and young children helps cement their bond.

“Children light up when being taken on imaginary adventures through storytelling, and it helps their creativity grow. It was great to be a part of CBeebies Bedtime Stories.”

Delaney’s story airs on Children in Need day, Friday 16 November on CBeebies.