Attenborough praises ecologist's 'wonderful work'

A Worcestershire man has received a handwritten letter from Sir David Attenborough congratulating him on his continued support of the natural world.

Former ecologist Alan Shepherd, 71, received the letter after a care worker at Westmead Residential Care Home in Droitwich wrote to the Blue Planet presenter.

Mr Shepherd described receiving the letter as like being contacted by a god.

He said: "I was astonished that David Attenborough took the time to hand-write a letter to me."

The letter reads: "Dear Alan Shepherd, I have been told of the wonderful work you have done to unveil the beauties and wonders of the natural world.

"Congratulations! I’ve been doing the same sort of thing on television and am totally convinced of the value of doing so.

"Best wishes, David Attenborough."

Once a senior ecologist at the Worcestershire Wildlife Consultancy, Mr Shepherd continues to engage his passion for the natural world by sharing his knowledge with the residents and staff at his care home.

Kate Lockwood, activities coordinator at the care home run by Sanctuary Care, said she wrote to Sir David to reward Alan for "all his hard work".

"He does wildlife classes and I was so proud of him so I decided to write to David Attenborough to see if anything could come back and I am so happy it did," she said.

"His reaction was the best, he definitely had some tears - very happy tears."

The handwritten note has now been framed and hangs in pride of place in Mr Shepherd's private room.