Stuart GouldenA well known location in York, on the recommendation of Visit York, is to feature in an episode of the popular CBeebies show ‘Something Special’ which targets a special audience of children with learning disabilities.
Deans Park, which boasts magnificent views of York Minster, provided the backdrop for an edition of ‘Something Special – We’re All Friends’ which saw the choir from the Federation of Hob Moor Oaks School and Hob Moor Community Primary Schools in Acomb perform an open-air concert with CBeebies’ star Justin Fletcher MBE.
Visit York’s Head of PR and Corporate Communications, Kay Hyde, commented: “York has some of the country’s most iconic landmarks and historical sites and after some weeks of negotiations it was wonderful to have one of them showcased in this hugely popular children’s show.
“Deans Park, which is managed by the Dean and Chapter of York Minster, makes for a stunning outside filming location and we were delighted to welcome this talented and inspiring choir to perform here with Justin. York is becoming an increasingly popular destination for film crews, generating millions of pounds worth of media exposure for the city.”
The York episode, filmed earlier this month and to be aired in October, was directed by local girl, Claire Taylor, who has been involved with the BBC’s ‘Something Special’ for four years.
“It is the most life affirming and rewarding show I have ever worked on.” says Claire. “We have met wonderful children over the years and the children from York are really inspirational. I knew as soon as I heard them sing and watch them sign, that I had to film them for “Something Special”. We were delighted to bring this show to York. As I was brought up in York, I feel especially proud of them. They were brilliant, and the concert was superb!”
Series Producer, Nia Ceidiog said “In this new series of “Something Special”, we wanted to really focus in on the significant achievements of these very special children and the concert in York drew a large audience on the day. Now though, the choir of the Federation of Hob Moor Oaks School and Hob Moor Community Primary Schools – and all the other children we’re featuring in the show – will have a huge TV following! It’s a huge privilege to produce “Something Special” which is one of CBeebies most popular programmes and I’m sure that with children such as the stars we filmed in York appearing on the show, it will continue to inspire, educate and entertain.”
‘Something Special’ features a signing language called Makaton – which allows children who are pre-vocal to communicate their needs, feelings, desires and beliefs to friends, family and others. The hapless Mr Tumble brings a huge dose of humour to the show which is loved by all children.
