Eight-year-old William got the shock of his life when he received a video message from Declan Donnelly praising his ’10 out of 10’ story.

William Potts from Peterlee said he was “really shocked” and “honoured” after his English teacher shared his story about Ant and Dec with half of the Geordie presenting duo.

The Northern Echo: William Potts with his English book signed by Dec.William Potts with his English book signed by Dec. (Image: PR)

The Geordie I’m a Celeb and Saturday Night Takeaway presenter was videoed reading William’s story and telling him: “I’ve just finished reading your story about Ant and Dec (me) on the desert island with the helicopter.

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“I absolutely loved it. I thought it was absolutely brilliant, amazing, fantastic work. I’m going to give it 10 out of 10 and I’m going to sign it as well.

“I can’t wait to read your next one. Keep up the good work and keep working hard.”

The Northern Echo: William's book has been signed by Dec, and his story marked 10 out of 10.William's book has been signed by Dec, and his story marked 10 out of 10. (Image: PR)

William now has Dec’s ‘Brilliant, 10/10’ stamp of approval written in his English book with the presenter’s signature beside it.

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William, a Year 4 pupil at Our Lady of The Rosary Catholic Primary School in Peterlee, County Durham said: “I was really shocked and really impressed. I was honoured to get the video.”

Sarah Howells, William’s teacher, explained how the story unfolded.

“Dec is my partner’s relative and at a family gathering, I mentioned how one of my children had written a lovely story about him and Ant,” she said.

The Northern Echo: Dec recorded the personalised video message for William.Dec recorded the personalised video message for William. (Image: PR)

“He was keen to read it and suggested making a video to show him how much he thought of the story.

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“It was amazing to be able to give a child this experience. It was great to see how much it inspired the children to want to write more. The class was so excited for him, and it was great to see his face after he watched the video.”

Ant and Dec will appear in a brand new series of I'm A Celebrity starting on Monday (April 24) night on ITV and ITVX.

The new series, set in South Africa, will see former campmates return to camp in a bid to be crowned the first 'Jungle Legend'.