YP Comment: Credit to technology innovators

Speech is a vital component of identity, and Mr Liversidge’s delight at being able to continue communicating in the accent that is part of him, rather than a computer-generated voice, is eloquent of how important such breakthroughs are for those living with debilitating illness.

Retaining as much normality as possible is extremely important to people with very serious conditions, and for a proud Yorkshireman this development has helped to do exactly that.

By preserving the accent that is a central part of Mr Liversidge’s identity and personality, the scientists responsible have not only done him an immensely good turn, but also his wife and children. Others will undoubtedly benefit from their breakthrough. That is warmly to be welcomed, and those responsible deserve congratulations for their imaginative achievement.

Father with motor neurone disease to keep Yorkshire accent as he loses speech