Shep's letter from 'hero' Sir David Attenborough
National treasure, Sir David Attenborough made the day of 71-year-old former ecologist, Alan ‘Shep’ Shepherd, by sending a personalised letter recognising the work he continues to do to support the natural world at his Sanctuary Care home in Droitwich.
Once a Senior Ecologist at the Worcestershire Wildlife Consultancy, where he studied the great outdoors, Shep continues to live his passion for the natural world by sharing his knowledge with the residents and staff at the care home.
The surprise letter from the much-adored biologist and broadcaster arrived at Westmead Residential Care Home recently to the delight of Shep - and the home’s activities coordinator Kate Lockwood, who wrote to Sir David initially, telling 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.”
Delighting to receive recognition from his role model, Shep said: “It is like receiving a letter from a god! I was astonished that David Attenborough took the time to hand write a letter to me.”
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.
Taymar Phillips, Westmead Residential Care Home’s Manager, commented: “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.”
For more about life at Westmead, or Sanctuary Care's other care homes in Worcestershire or beyond, our Enquiry Support Team are here to talk on 0800 331 7422.
