NATIONAL treasure Sir David Attenborough has made the day of a Droitwich care home resident after sending him a letter recognising his work in promoting the beauty of the natural world.
Former ecologist and resident of Westmead Residential Care Home, 71-year-old Alan Shepherd – better known as ‘Shep’ – was delighted to receive the letter honouring his efforts to teach his fellow residents about the natural world.
Shep was once a senior ecologist at the Worcestershire Wildlife Consultancy, where he studied the great outdoors. Now he continues to live his passion for the natural world by sharing his knowledge with the residents and staff at the home.
The correspondence with Sir David was sparked by the home’s activities coordinator Kate Lockwood, who who wrote to Sir David to tell him about Shep’s passion.
In his letter acknowledging Shep’s work, the Blue Planet presenter said: “Dear Alan Shepherd,
“I have been told of the wonderful work you have done to 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.”
Since receiving the letter, staff of the not-for-profit Sanctuary Care home have arranged for the handwritten note to be framed alongside a picture of David Attenborough, which now hangs in pride of place in Shep’s private room at Westmead.
Sharing his delight at receiving recognition from his role model, Shep said: “It is like receiving a letter from a god. I was astonished David Attenborough took the time to hand write a letter to me.”
Taymar Phillips, Westmead Residential Care Home’s Manager, added:
“When the letter arrived, Shep was overcome with joy. He loves animals and everything to do with nature; at any opportunity he is sharing his excellent insight on conservation and biology with fellow residents and staff members.
“Shep lives and breathes the great outdoors and often conducts talks with residents about the animals we have across the UK, which gives him such a sense of purpose, sharing the knowledge he has developed throughout his studies and career.”
