Wirral librarian meets head of CBBC in bid for TV fame

Feb 1 2012 by Linda Foo Guest, Birkenhead News

A BUDDING TV presenter from Wirral has met the boss of CBBC to help launch his career.

Carl Loughlin-Ravenscroft dreams came true when he was whittled down to the final three in a national search to find a presenter for Marks and Spencer’s online TV station.

The 29-year-old came second, with the support of Wirral readers who voted for him after an appeal was made in the News last November.

He thought his dreams of stardom were over, but in a twist of fate an agent rang wanting to represent him.

His agent then arranged a meeting with the head of CBBC, Helen Bullough.

Now the TV boss will be keeping him in mind for any forthcoming projects.

Carl, a librarian at Wallasey Library, told the News: “I returned to London in the final three for another audition, and came second.

“They said I was fantastic, but thought I was more suited to children's TV. It was a bit gutting as I had asked everyone to vote. But then an agent who represents other presenters rang me to be on his books.”

In his spare time, Carl has been busy doing children's book review on video and dressing up as different characters.

They are then posted on his website and Youtube.

One of Carl’s characters is called Grandpa Joe, who reads stories and unsuspectingly pulls out disgusting props from his book to keep the viewer entertained.

In one video he reads the Red Riding Hood tale and as she is being eaten, he pulls out her hand.

Carl, from Bromborough, added: “Helen loved my videos and website. She told me to encourage people to view my videos so that she can say that I have got thousands of views on my videos.

“Now she’s looking out for anything being commissioned that might be right for me.

“My Grandpa Joe character is becoming successful and I'm now in talks with Waterstones to hold a Gruesome Grandpa Joe story telling sessions – which means I’ll be telling it live to children in stores.

“I’m using my library skills and experience, adding my television presenting and creating something that hopefully will bring books to life.

“I hope to encourage kids to get into reading, doing something that's modern, – using online video and live theatre.

“A huge thanks to everyone who has supported me.”

Check out Carl’s characters and story-telling at www.CarlOnTV.com