Attenborough at 100: The region where Sir David ‘learned to love wildlife’

To mark Sir David’s 100th birthday, a tree was planted outside College House on Friday as part of a day of celebrations across the East Midlands.

University of Leicester president and vice-chancellor, Prof Sir Nishan Canagarajah, described the naturalist as “a tireless advocate for the planet and a cherished part of our university’s history”.

Cara Hewitt, a ranger at Bradgate Park, told the BBC Sir David’s influence is still felt among her colleagues.

“We come here and we want to care for the same land that he once had a spark for,” she said.

“We consider ourselves a small park, and then to know that we still hold a place in his heart, it’s amazing to think we are like a treasure to him.”

Another important – but far lesser known – spot for Sir David was Tilton Railway Cutting, situated between Leicester and Oakham in Rutland.