Paddy and Christine McGuinness are set to star in a special programme this week to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day on Thursday April 2.
The couple, who have three autistic children, have joined the cast of 'Daisy & Ollie' on Channel 5's Milkshake.
Created in collaboration with the National Autistic Society (NAS) and airing on Thursday the new episode ‘How Do I Make Friends With Theo?’ features Top Gear presenter Paddy McGuinness as Uncle Tommy and NAS ambassador and TV Star Christine McGuinness as Theo’s Mummy.
In the episode, Daisy’s Uncle Tommy brings his son Theo to the aquarium for a fun day out with Daisy, Ollie and Daisy’s Daddy (Jason Manford).
Theo is reluctant to make friends with Ollie immediately, but the family soon help him understand that Theo is autistic, meaning he sees and understands the world a little differently.
Together they all enjoy learning about the aquarium species and celebrate why being different makes them all very special.
Christine McGuinness said: “ It was amazing for Paddy and I to be asked by Jason Manford to be part of this very special autism themed episode of Daisy & Ollie and introducing the new character, Theo.
“As parents to three autistic children, we know how important it is for other children and families to understand autism, so voicing Theo’s parents in the show was a wonderful opportunity for us to share this important message.
"We will continue to spread awareness and help change society for our own little superstars and autistic people and their families.
“From voice recording to being part of the character design, the whole process has been a brilliant experience and I can’t wait to watch it with the whole family on World Autism Awareness Day.”
Jane Harris, Director of External Affairs at the National Autistic Society, said, “We are so excited for this special episode of Daisy & Ollie, airing on World Autism Awareness Day – it’s an amazing opportunity for younger children to learn more about autism.”
“It has been fantastic to work with Jason Manford and the team at Daisy & Ollie , helping to develop the script and to ensure the character of Theo is as authentic as possible. Channel 5’s hugely popular Milkshake! programming block is an ideal platform, and Theo’s story will get young children and their parents talking about autism at home.”
*Daisy & Ollie ‘How Do I Make Friends With Theo’ airs at 7:10am on World Autism Awareness Day on Thursday 2 April.
