15 April 2020

David Beckham plays a (Peaky) blinder with surprise visit to cancer patient

When 70 year-old David Roberts answered a knock at his front door, he might have expected a delivery driver or perhaps a neighbour.

What he certainly didn't think of, was one of England's most famous ever footballers.

But there was Manchester United legend David Beckham, in full Peaky Blinder look, standing in the front garden.

Mr Roberts, who has cancer, was nominated by Age Concern to meet a celebrity but he was not told who would be paying him a visit.

He told his local newspaper the Oxford Mail: “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.”

Due to his condition Mr Roberts has been unable to leave his home for several weeks.

Before he left, Beckham handed over a goody bag containing presents for Mr Roberts, his wife and their 33 year-old son.

The thrilled pensioner said: “I think the visit was as much for them [his wife and son] 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 for three years.”

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