Birthday tribute to Sir David Attenborough displayed on Piccadilly Lights

Birthday tribute to Sir David Attenborough displayed on Piccadilly LightsThe environmentalist, often hailed as a ‘national treasure’, is celebrating his 100th birthday on Friday.A birthday message for Sir David Attenborough has illuminated London’s Piccadilly Lights (BBC Studios/Ocean Outdoor)

A birthday message for Sir David Attenborough has illuminated a popular London landmark as part of celebrations marking the beloved naturalist’s centenary.

Piccadilly Lights has been taken over by BBC Studios with a message dedicated to Sir David on his 100th birthday.

The message will be displayed throughout the day and consists of a two-minute video dedicated to Sir David from planet Earth, reflecting on his decades-long career.

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The tribute emphasises his contribution to natural history filmmaking and storytelling using archival footage of Sir David, as well as clips from his recent work.

The video is said to “capture the spirit that defines his career and inspires audiences”, while reflecting on his key moments as a veteran broadcaster and natural historian.

Jonny Keeling, head of BBC Studios natural history unit, said: “Sir David Attenborough has changed the way we view the planet. He has inspired me and millions of others to love and cherish the natural world.

“As he turns 100, this birthday message celebrates his extraordinary work which continues to move audiences of all ages across the globe.”

In the week leading up to his birthday, Sir David was inundated with good wishes.

The Duke of Sussex hailed the naturalist as “an institutional pillar as essential to the national fabric as a cup of tea”, while Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described Sir David as a “true national treasure and a pioneer in his field”.

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His centenary is also being marked with a live event at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday, featuring music from his programmes along with stories and reflections from public figures and leading advocates for the natural world.

It is just one of many events to mark his birthday, as the Natural History Museum’s immersive exhibition presented by Sir David will be transformed into a free five-minute show in central London to celebrate.

Our Story With David Attenborough will be adapted to be shown at Outernet London in Tottenham Court Road, and the veteran BBC nature presenter will take viewers through the history of people and the Earth before presenting a vision of London’s future.