Rob Delaney to deliver first ever CBeebies Bedtime Story in sign language

The actor used sign language to communicate with his son Henry, who died in January at two years old

Rob Delaney (Getty Images)

Rob Delaney will deliver the first CBeebies Bedtime Story in a version of sign language 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 people to communicate who cannot efficiently do so by speaking.

Makaton uses signs and symbols along with spoken language to encourage the development of speech.

The Catastrophe star 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.”

Ten In The Bed is about 10 cuddly friends trying to go to bed, and young viewers will enjoy joining in with the bouncy, counting bedtime rhyme.

Delaney is the latest star to read a bedtime story for the BBC, following the likes of Tom Hardy, Sir Elton John and Dolly Parton.

Delaney’s CBeebies Bedtime Story will air on Children In Need’s telethon day, on November 16.

CBeebies Bedtime Stories is on daily at 6.50pm.