King Charles and Prince William joined forces to pay tribute to one of the most popular and well respected people in the country and they got some unexpected help along the way.
The King and the Prince of Wales helped celebrate the 100th birthday of Sir David Attenborough, the environmentalist and broadcaster whose TV and radio shows have helped shape modern attitudes to the natural world.
Prince William joined Sir David in the royal box at the Royal Albert Hall for a special evening marking his 100th birthday. And during a speech from the stage, the Prince paid tribute to the pioneering nature of his work, saying ”Through your boundless curiosity, gentle wisdom, and unwavering dedication, you have opened our eyes to the beauty of our planet, and to its fragility, reminding us of our collective responsibility to protect it.”
The Prince went on ”You have been a guiding light in the work we now undertake to safeguard the natural world. Long before many of us found our voice on the challenges we face, you were speaking with clarity, urgency, and optimism. And it is that sense of urgent optimism that has made all the difference.”
There was also a reflection on the impact that Sir David’s work has had as Prince William said ”one of the greatest gifts you have given us, David, is more than just an understanding of what is at risk. You have given us belief that positive change is still possible.”
During the event, King Charles also made his own tribute in a film created specially for the 100th birthday celebrations.
The King was seen in the depths of the Scottish Highlands, writing a letter to Sir David who he has known for over 60 years.
King Charles also had some help in getting his message to the birthday party. In the film, it was seen being carried out of Balmoral on a silver platter before being put into a jeep to get to the post box. However, a fallen tree meant that the collie dog in the back of the car had to jump out with the letter in its mouth, starting off a chain of animal helpers including a hedgehog, a squirrel and some swans. The letter, muddied but undamaged, was delivered to Sir David who held it up for the audience at the Royal Albert Hall to see.
In the note, King Charles praised Sir David’s work and his determination to protect the planet and the species living on it.
The special celebratory event was broadcast on BBC One and took place on May 8, the day that Sir David Attenborough turned 100.
