A UNIVERSITY of Winchester lecturer helped support a number of presenters during Channel 4’s Paralympics coverage.

Rose Ayling Ellis, best known for her victory on Strictly Come Dancing, has become the first deaf person to host live sports coverage in the UK.

Rose's successful debut as a live sports presenter happened following intensive four-month training.

Angus Scott, a broadcaster and senior lecturer in journalism, diligently coached Rose and her team of interpreters, prior to the Paris games held recently.

Formerly known to many as an EastEnders star and the first deaf winner of the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, Rose adds another groundbreaking achievement to her portfolio.

In a bid to accommodate her deafness in a live setting, Angus devised a unique system.

Rose had an interpreter by the camera translating the gallery's speech, and another in the studio who signed what co-presenter Clare Balding or other guests said.

Angus incorporated a flashboard - a modified iPad - to send written instructions to Rose on her desk in the studio, making communication smoother.

Angus said: "Traditionally presenters wear earpieces to hear the gallery, where directors and producers give them instructions. But that clearly couldn’t happen with Rose.

"So I had to find a way where Rose could feel comfortable not only understanding what was going on, but also so she could perform at the same time.

"She was utterly amazing to work with. She is an inspiration. From the very first moment she walked into a studio with me, she wanted to make this ground breaking television work. And she has down that. She is a superstar.

"I hope what Rose has done will leave a legacy for any deaf person who wants to be a television presenter. It can be done."

Beyond coaching Rose, Angus lent his expertise to other debutants on Channel 4's Paralympics coverage.

Jodie Ounsley, known as "Fury" from popular TV show Gladiators, also benefitted from Angus's guidance.

Equipped with a cochlear implant, Jodie was able to interview athletes post-race at the Stade de France.

Additionally, Angus’s roster extended to former Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds, runner Libby Clegg and influencer Milly Pickles.

With his help, these individuals were able to effectively interact with the audience and participants, enhancing Channel 4's Paralympics coverage.