Sir David Attenborough is being transformed into a hologram for a virtual reality tour of the Natural History Museum.

The naturalist, 90, will guide people as they virtually “handle” fossils from “the comfort of their own home”.

Sir David said: “Hold The World offers people a unique opportunity, to examine rare objects, some millions of years old, up close.

Sir David Attenborough (Jane Barlow/PA)
Sir David Attenborough (Jane Barlow/PA)

“It represents an extraordinary new step in how people can explore and experience nature… and I am delighted to be able to help users uncover some of the treasures the Natural History Museum has to offer in a thrilling new way.”

The experience, which will be available from Sky through its VR app after it goes into production later this year, will enable people to take a look at precious dinosaur fossils and delicate insects.

The Natural History Museum said it was “always looking for innovative ways to share our collection and Hold The World offers the chance to explore it as never before.”