CBeebies legend Mr Tumble to step back from role after 22 years

The CBeebies icon will be taking a break from the channel

For decades, CBeebies has been entertaining young kids - and helping out countless parents - with programmes such as its iconic bedtime story segment and popular shows like In the Night Garden.

And over the last couple of decades, one of the channel's biggest stars has been Justin Fletcher a.k.a. Mr Tumble.

But now, the entertainer has announced he will be stepping away from his show Something Special after 22 years, the Star reports.

First broadcast in 2003, Something Special is a show geared towards helping children learn how to communicate and develop their language skills, particularly those with additional needs.

Fletcher starred in the show both as himself and the character Mr Tumble, and was know for using signings, speech and symbols in the Makaton language.

One of those is Maddie Moate, who wrote on social media: "Last year I was lucky to be part of something special... THE 'Something Special', now in its 14th series, starring the much loved Mr Tumble and Justin Fletcher!

"For anyone who's unfamiliar with the show, Something Special is a children's TV programme that uses Makaton signs, speech and symbols to help children learn how to communicate and develop their language skills in a fun and exciting way.

"The new series remains the same happy, welcoming place (featuring lots of Mr Tumble!), but with the addition of a few friendly familiar Cbeebies faces!"

Along with Maddie, presenters George Webster and Ben Cajee will also be stepping in as temporary replacements for Fletcher.

Whilst the trio will be joining as presenters, it sounds like there will still be some appearances from Mr Tumble in the show.

Webster said it was "super fun" to film the show, adding that Mr Tumble had been one of his "childhood heroes."

Meanwhile, Cajee said: "Got the nod to be part of the new presenting line up on Something Special. When I was younger, other than opening the batting for England or running West Ham’s midfield, I didn’t know what I wanted to do for work.

"That’s still the case now. I thought it would be cool to be around sport, with children and in broadcasting - and feel fortunate to be able to do those things."