David Beckham has given a helping hand to a project being carried out by pupils at a Dulwich school. The Manchester United star who is more used to using his magical feet has sent a print of his hand to children at Langbourne Primary School.

Pupils at the school in Lyle Avenue wrote to a number of celebrities in April asking them to send a print or outline of their hands to include on their wall of hand prints. As well as the England captain, Arsenal footballer Ashley Cole has also sent a copy of his hand, as have some of the cast of EastEnders, pop stars S Club, and even prime minister Tony Blair.

Headteacher Carol Field said: "The children got really excited every time we received a letter which we read out in assembly.

"They were very happy to know that these famous people out there cared enough to reply."

July 17, 2002 11:00