Throng

The BBC has spoken out to defend disabled CBeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell, after some parents complained that she was "scaring" their children.

CBeebies programme controller Michael Carrington described Cerrie as "warm and natural", adding that her disability should not be an issue. Cerrie was born with one arm, but has been able to pursue a television and teaching assistant career.

"She was appointed because she was the best person for the job. We see no reason for her to try to hide her disability and are surprised that in 2009 this should even be raised as an issue," said a BBC spokesperson.
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Michael Carrington, CBeebies Creative Director, today announced three major new commissions for the BBC's youngest children's brand.

Destined for BBC Two and the CBeebies digital channel, the fun-packed series celebrate community, song and the formative relationships in little ones' lives.

Michael Carrington said: "I'm thrilled that CBeebies is able to attract outstanding talent and expertise to work with us. Young children will be captivated by these three new series which have been created to support their personal development and inspire their creativity and sense of fun."

Carrie & David's Popshop

Made by BBC Scotland, Carrie & David's Popshop is an innovative and interactive music show with a difference presented by Carrie and David Grant of the BBC's Fame Academy.

David and Carrie have a Popshop – the best song shop in the world! Every day, a customer calls into the shop in need of a song and with some help from Riff the dog, CBeebies and the viewers singing along at home, they create and perform a brand new original pop song.

Children's favourite, CBeebies, is getting a brand new look and three exclusive new shows this March.

With a dedicated programme for each age group, there's a special treat for all including a magical delight from the creators of Teletubbies, live action animal adventures and animated superhero escapades.

Screening alongside award-winning and established favourites such as LazyTown, Charlie and Lola and Big Cook, Little Cook, CBeebies is the place for children to be this Spring.

The three new shows are In The Night Garden, Mama Mirabelle's Home Movies and Tommy Zoom.

Made by acclaimed children's specialists and creators of Teletubbies, Ragdoll's Anne Wood and Andy Davenport's latest production is In The Night Garden.

Filmed in a real woodland setting, In The Night Garden is a magical programme, for the under-4s, about the dreaming time between waking and sleeping. Reached by following a magical little, blue star, the Night Garden is a warm and affectionate world which is home to a comical and diverse community of toys, living happily together.