David Beckham surprises pensioner in front garden during lockdown
David Beckham surprised a pensioner by visiting his home to deliver a care package during lockdown.
David Roberts, 70, from Abingdon in Oxfordshire, was nominated by charity Age Concern to connect with a “high profile celebrity” and was told to expect a phone call at 10.15am.
But retired footballer Beckham, 44, surprised Roberts by appearing in his front garden.
Roberts told the Oxford Mail: "David was at my door right on time. All I could think to say was, ‘Hello, how are you?’
David Beckham makes surprise visit to man's house in Abingdonhttps://t.co/IayJWoCxg4
— Oxford Mail (@TheOxfordMail) April 14, 2020
"He is a lovely guy, we chatted about what will happen to this season’s football, and Manchester Utd and also me being a Liverpool supporter.
"He also gave a goody bag to me and my family."
In keeping with social-distancing guidelines Beckham was not able to enter the house but stood in the front garden and had a chat.
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Mr Roberts lives at home with his wife and his 33-year-old son who have cared for him as he battled cancer.
He added: "I think the visit was as much for them as me because they have cared for me since I had a cancer operation in December, which I have been battling, with the help and support of family and friends -who include neighbours and work colleagues - for three years."
Laurie Boult, Fundraising Director at Age UK, said: “We are delighted that David Beckham is supporting Age UK’s Emergency Coronavirus Appeal to help older people in need during this exceptionally challenging time.
“As well as helping to raise awareness of the charity’s work and emergency fundraising appeal, David and his family generously volunteered their time to accompany their local Age UK to help deliver care packages for older people at a safe distance. Their support has also hugely boosted morale and raised spirits during this challenging time.
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“Age UK is determined to be there for older people who need our help and especially for those who have no one else to turn to in this time of crisis.”
Beckham is self-isolating with wife Victoria Beckham and their youngest children Romeo, 17, Cruz, 15, and Harper, eight, at their country home in the Cotswolds. Their eldest son Brooklyn, 21, is believed to be in isolation elsewhere.
He has spoken out on Instagram, urging people to stay at home in order to help limit the spread of coronavirus.