DELIGHTED residents and local businesses have told of their encounter with Sir David Attenborough in Weymouth today.

The veteran broadcaster - widely hailed as a national treasure - caused a stir at Custom House Quay where he was filming with a production crew.

According to onlookers Sir David's on-screen charisma and trademark dulcet tones and accent were instantly recognisable - and he was just as heartwarming in the flesh as on TV.

Hannah Robbins was one of the lucky few to be at the harbour when he arrived and was even able to catch the VIP guest on video.

Hannah said: "It was amazing. Hearing his voice in real life while he was filming was so surreal! Just seeing his face brings you happiness."

The TV personality and his infectious smile 'warmed cockles' amongst the crowds, as onlookers witnessed him chatting to staff at local fishmonger Weyfish.

Mark Wellaway also witnessed the scenes today and contacted the Echo with some pictures of Sir David.

Mr Wellaway said "It was amazing seeing a person with so much wisdom and caring in his past. Seeing him in real life was a real treat."

 

Dorset Echo: Sir David delighted the crowds todaySir David delighted the crowds today (Image: Limelight Boutique)
 

Felicity Treweek, who owns Limelight Boutique in Weymouth town centre, was also among those lucky enough to see Sir David today.

At first she didn't believe the news - until she saw the VIP in the flesh.

Felicity said: "My father-in-law was just having a stroll on the harbour as the weather is so lovely today and messaged saying, "I’m a few feet away from David Attenborough."

"I thought he was joking…. we quickly closed both shops and all the girls and I went down there, it’s a once in lifetime opportunity to see him in the flesh on a lovely sunny day in the glorious sunshine in Weymouth.

She added, "Today was lovely on the harbour, too - Sir David went into Weyfish, I assume for lunch, so we came back and opened up the shop as our deliveries arrived."

The environmental campaigner and presenter has previously spoken of the need for sustainable fishing - and so it is a huge accolade for the local fishing industry to have him here.

Dorset Echo: Sir David Attenborough outside WeyfishSir David Attenborough outside Weyfish (Image: Limelight Boutique)

The Echo popped down to Custom House Quay in an attempt to speak with Sir David and find out more about the filming - but the production crew remained tight-lipped and appeared to be sworn to secrecy.

So for now we look forward to finding out more about Weymouth's starring role in Sir David's forthcoming  project - and for now, we are content to share with our readers some of your pics and video clips of today's VIP visitor.