Leeds teacher goes viral with storytelling videos inspired by Mrs Doubtfire

The character 'Veronica Silver' goes live on Facebook and Instagram every day to read morning and bedtime stories to children during the coronavirus pandemic.

Inspired by the classic 1993 Robin Williams film, Veronica Silver is the brainchild of Middleton Primary School teacher Michelle Park.

Michelle created the character as she was concerned about the wellbeing of her class during the lockdown and wanted to support them.

She began to post her videos online and within a week the live videos were being watched by 37,000 people from across the country.

Michelle said: "We look after a lot of children from disadvantaged areas, and children whose parents are key workers, so may not get to spend a lot of time with them during the lockdown.

"I wanted to ensure they still had some structure to their day and something to look forward to.

"I also use the story time to openly talk about the current situation and suggest ideas for drawings or activities they can do at home."

Headteacher of Middleton Primary, Samantha Williams is delighted with the public’s reaction to Veronica Silver.

She said: "we are so lucky to have such a dedicated and inspirational member of staff whose concerns for her own pupil’s mental health and wellbeing, are now benefitting thousands of children nationwide."

The teacher is now appealing for more books so that she does not run out of stories to read to the children.

Due to the lockdown, they cannot involve the public in this appeal but are urging publishers and authors to help.

After Michelle has read them, she will give the books to the children as prizes.

How you can help:

The teacher needs:

- 5-10 minute storybooks for children aged 4-8

- Support from authors local and nationwide providing books, special messages or signed photos etc

- General prizes to give out like signed photos, books or book marks etc

Any companies or authors wanting to support Michelle are asked to email her at [email protected].

To follow Veronica Silver on Facebook or Instagram, please go to @athomewithveronicasilver