Twitter Unites to Help Father Find Rare Gift for Autistic Son
Sarah Oconnell
Updated on February 22, 2026
Every so often, a story comes around that restores your faith in humanity and reminds you that social media has the enormous power of being an instrument of goodwill, as opposed to just a platform for trolling. This is one of those stories.
On Sunday, London resident James Dutton put up a desperate plea on Twitter. His 19-year-old son, Thomas, who is severely autistic, is obsessed with a British children's show from the '80s called "Postman Pat."
He watches the videos on YouTube, but asked for a physical copy of "Postman Pat's Prize Postbag" for Christmas. This posed a bit of a problem for Dutton, as the 1981 film had long ceased to be distributed.
His only solution was to find a Good Samaritan on social media who might own a copy and sell it to him.
Does anyone have or know of anyone who may still have this VHS? My severely autistic son Thomas has written it on his Xmas list…please let me know!
— James Dutton (@jdutton69) November 12, 2017
To add…he watches the episodes on YouTube but wants the box to add to his collection (he's 19 now and loved watching them as a child)
— James Dutton (@jdutton69) November 13, 2017
The tweet quickly went viral, as people scrambled together to find him a copy.
I did have it at my grandmas I will ask the to look into the attic for you! If I can find it it's yours!
— Jamie / 47 (@JDOCTORWHO17) November 13, 2017
I might have this on VHS, I'll ask my parents to have a look in my collection and if so I'll happily donate it for your son's Christmas present ☺️
— – (@rachybabessss) November 13, 2017
James! Twitter is bonkers – this was retweeted by a script consultant I follow – small world. Have you had any luck? x
— Melanie H (@tvplaysfilms) November 13, 2017
Hi James. If you get stuck looking for this I'm pretty sure we could make up a VHS box and VHS with the material on, get in touch if you can't find actual copy.
— Tom David Large (@tomdavidlarge) November 13, 2017
Word spread around and even got the head execs involved.
Amazing! Kevin is checking at BBC WW and I've asked a contact at Cbeebies – just in case they can point us in some directions
— Melanie H (@tvplaysfilms) November 13, 2017
Best of luck – try @BBCFrontRow as Ivor Wood wife Josiane was on (part of woodland animations)
— Christopher Iddon (@Chris_Iddon97) November 13, 2017
But ultimately, it was just one ordinary person that came through and saved the day.
@jdutton69 I have a copy!! Replied on your other tweet but not sure if it'll get lost amongst so many replies. Our box of old videos was in the hall on the way to the charity shop after a clear out of the loft at the weekend! Dm me your address & I can post it to you 😀
— Jill (@jilly284) November 14, 2017
Obviously, Dutton was elated.
YES!!!!! Thank you SO much!!! How wonderful!x
— James Dutton (@jdutton69) November 14, 2017
STOP PRESS!! Thanks to wonderful @jilly284 seeing a retweet from @BrendanCole a copy's been found! The response has been absolutely overwhelming and I'm so grateful to everyone for taking the time to give advice, or search in attics! The heartwarming side of human nature ❤️
— James Dutton (@jdutton69) November 14, 2017
Thanks to Twitter, looks like it's going to be a pretty great Christmas.
For more advice on living your best life, follow us on Facebook now!
Diana Bruk Diana is a senior editor who writes about sex and relationships, modern dating trends, and health and wellness.Read moreFiled UnderFatherhood • Kids • NewsRead This Next10 Things You Didn't Know about Justin Trudeau
Athlete, nerd, hopeless romantic, thespian. Yes, there’s a lot more to Canada’s Prime Minister than just politics.March 21, 2017Jon Hamm: The Best Life Interview
Jon Hamm, star of TV's Mad Men, reveals the secrets of manliness in a postmodern world.November 15, 2016Driving Tips Smart Men Know
Ten easy ways to be the safest driver on the road. April 3, 2017Men Who Set the Time: Cash Warren
The successful producer, entrepreneur and husband of Jessica Alba reveals how you, too, can live your best life.October 31, 2016Dr. Oz: The Best Life Interview
Mehmet Oz, M.D., asks the toughest question: Are you living or dying?October 23, 2016Dr. Oz's 15 Best Life Tips
October 23, 2016The One That Got Away
A single nutrient—omega-3 fatty acids—may have turned early humans into civilized man. Has stripping it from our diet given rise to cancer, diabetes, and other civilized diseases? Our correspondent investigates.February 23, 2017George Clooney Is Having Twins. Here's What Women Everywhere Are Saying About It
The legendary ladies' man who once swore off fatherhood went from zero to "Full House" very quickly—and the Internet has responded.February 10, 2017Celebrate Spring with These 15 Instagram Goddesses
Nothing heats up social media quite like sunshine.April 6, 2017Fiction: "Tranquility"
Some men find peace by searching for meaning. Others find it by abandoning the quest.October 14, 2016
