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.
