Shropshire Star

Blue Peter presenter Konnie turns scientist and author in Oswestry

Konnie Huq is best know as the popular Blue Peter television presenter.

Published
James Wright enjoys a science experiment with Konnie Hug

But the celebrity showed her skills as an author, artist and a scientist when she visited Shropshire yesterday .

She launched her first children's book in conjunction with Oswestry's Booka Bookshop at the Lion Quays in an interactive morning which saw her spellbound fans join her in science experiments on stage.

The author, who co-wrote one of the adult drama Black Mirror episodes with husband, Charlie Booker, introduced the audience to the star of her children's book,Cookie and The Most Annoying Boy in the World.

Cookie is a nine-year-old science 'nerd' who is distraught after her best friend announces she is leaving and a new neighbour moves in. Then she has the chance to make her dream come true – appearing on her favourite TV show Brainbusters.

Carrie Morris from Booka said: “On the surface, it seems as though Konnie Huq and Cookie Haque have a lot in common. They both grew up in London’s Bangladeshi community. Cookie’s loves science and so does Konnie, who did Chemistry, Maths and Physics at A-Level and went to Cambridge University.

“Both are unashamedly enthusiastic about science and self-confessed nerds. Konnie has inspired children everywhere with her passion for presenting and willingness to take on challenges. Cookie is a great reminder that children are happiest when they are doing what they love, whether that is science, reading or taking on the world.”

Konnie spend the morning getting the audience involved in playing games, holding quizzes and doing science experiments.

She showed her skills at doodling by bringing a large sheet of paper to life with characters and cartoons.