First CBeebies presenter with Down’s syndrome calls for more TV jobs for disabled people

THE first CBeebies presenter with Down’s syndrome has called for more TV jobs for people with learning disabilities.

George Webster, 21, believes it would result in kinder treatment of those like himself.

The star, who made his debut on the kids’ channel in September, said it is “so important” to have more of those with disabilities in the media. Then people would “better understand  . . . and be less scared to approach someone and talk to them”.

He added: “Then they could get to know them better. This would also mean people treat us better — it could improve things massively.”

George is an ambassador for charity Mencap, which is marking its 75th anniversary.

Its research found two-thirds of Brits do not know what a learning disability is despite 1.5million people in the UK having one. It also shows 40 per cent of adults feel uncomfortable talking to those with a learning disability.

George, of Leeds, said: “I want everyone to treat people with a learning disability fairly and not judge. Talk to us before assuming anything.

“I’ve been over the moon with the positive feedback since I joined CBeebies.

“I think it will help people understand more. They can learn more about me and see we’re not that different.”