A SETTLE boy with a famous namesake has appeared on BBC TV to help promote the FutureWorld Exhibition Programme.

John Simpson, 10, of Northfields, is one of a number of children with famous names featured in the trailer which has been shown on BBC One, Two and its digital channels.

He says the word "honesty", and appears alongside other top names including Michael Parkinson, David Frost, Sarah Greene, and Gregory Dyke.

Although the names are the same, the faces are very different. They are all UK children who share the same names as famous personalities.

The campaign announces the FutureWorld Exhibition Programme and coincides with the BBC's touring exhibition which opened in Bradford on February 19.

John's parents were contacted by BBC researchers some time ago, and he went to an interview in Leeds. Then in January the Settle Primary School pupil travelled to London with his mum, Rachel, for the filming.

"He enjoyed it. It was very interesting to see how they did the filming. Now when it comes on, his little brother and sister shout: "John you're on the telly!" We have a video of it," Rachel told the Herald.

Jane Frost, controller of BBC corporate marketing, said: "Attempting to show the future in a 60 second trail is fraught with difficulties, which is why the exhibition idea was conceived. We hope the campaign will help people realise the range and value of what they get from the BBC - and secure its place in the future for our children."

There is a FutureWorld website: www.bbc.co.uk/futureworld

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