Sunderland schoolboy sent lockdown homework to Sir David Attenborough and received amazing reply

Fraser Hadley, eight, is an avid fan of the legendary broadcaster and natural historian, watching all of his shows and even doing impressions of the 94-year-old.

Like most youngsters his age, Fraser has been homeschooling due to the pandemic and as part of a task from Hetton Lyons Primary School he was asked to create a poster of his most aspirational person.

The schoolboy juggles lessons at home in Easington Lane with helping mum Dianne Barker care for her mum Mary who was left paralysed by a stroke.

His nana was so impressed by his poster efforts that she suggested they send it to the man himself – but they never expected him to send a photo back.

"He must be inundated with letters so we never expected a reply,” said Dianne. “I think the reason Fraser’s letter stood out is because he went into lots of detail about his homeschooling and he said that if Sir David was lonely in Lockdown he could ring Fraser to chat.

"He also mentioned how Sir David’s brother is Santa Claus (Richard Attenborough played Father Christmas in Miracle on 34th Street).”

Although the letter says Sir David can’t reply to all questions because he receives so many, Dianne says Fraser was delighted with the response, especially the signed photo which he has since framed.

Homeschooling proved particularly challenging for Fraser due to him living with congenital nystagmus, an eye condition which causes involuntary eye movements.

The symptoms of the condition were exacerbated when he started homeschooling because of the increase in screen time, but mum Dianne managed to adapt the sessions to include more paper work.

Dianne said: “Fraser really struggled at the beginning of Lockdown. He’s a mini carer too for his nana, so I’m so proud of how he’s dealt with being at home all the time.

"Receiving the photo from Sir David made his dreams come true. I think it also gives children faith that it doesn't matter how famous or old idols are, some still spread their love and kindness, even in these very challenging times.”

Teachers at Hetton Lyons School were so impressed by Fraser’s project they gave him a Hetton Hero Award.

Support your Echo and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on SAFC and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.