NATIONAL treasure David Attenborough greeted a select group of fans in Winchester on yesterday at an exclusive book signing.

Mr Attenborough, who won the hearts of the nation through nature documentary series' such as Planet Earth, Blue Planet and Africa, was at the city's Waterstones store in the High Street for the event.

Despite pleas from fans desperate to meet him, only around 300 people get their hands on tickets.

The private event was closely managed, with the press being excluded and guests told photos with the 92-year-old icon would not be allowed.

Queues formed along the High Street from around 3pm, when the store was temporary close, with Mr Attenborough being snuck in through the store's back entrance in St George's Street.

He was there as part of a tour following the release of his new illustrated book Life on Earth.

It has been released in hardback to celebrate 40 years since it was first published. The special edition has been updated to take the reader "on an unforgettable journey of discovery from the very first spark of life to the blue and green wonder we know today".

Mr Attenborough began his illustrious career with the BBC in 1952 and since then his work has earned nearly twenty awards, including Emmys and Baftas.

He has also received the National Television Awards' Special Recognition accolade, the Bafta Fellowship and a knighthood.