TV presenter Ben Fogle has backed a campaign by the RNLI to tell the story of a dramatic sea rescue carried out by the cause.

The RNLI, which is based in Poole, has joined forces with Ben Fogle, who is a life-time supporter of the charity, to create a short film about windsurfer, Simon Haggie, who got caught out in bad weather and lost his sail.

From 1 January 2017, the RNLI will be the first major charity to move to an opt in only approach for communicating with its supporters and the aim of the short film is to encourage people to do that.

Speaking about the film, Ben said: "I feel honoured to share the incredible rescue story of a man who got into trouble when out at sea windsurfing this summer.

"Simon had almost given up hope when he was heroically rescued by the RNLI. His wife wrote a heartfelt letter expressing her thanks to the charity for saving his life, helping him to live to see one of his daughters get married, and also to meet his first grandchild, due shortly after he was rescued."

He added: "Telling a story is a simple act, but sharing the lifesaving stories of the RNLI can in turn save lives. By doing this, they help spread the word about the amazing work of RNLI volunteer crews around our coasts, and help recruit new supporters to the charity."

Will Stephens, head of lifesaving at the RNLI, said: "We believe that moving to an opt in approach is the right thing to do. The respect and trust of our supporters is of utmost importance to us.

"By opting in to hear from us, our supporters will continue to hear rescue stories of the lifesaving work carried out by RNLI volunteers every day.

"Passing on the amazing work that the RNLI carries out has never been more important."

Research of 700 supporters by the charity shows that almost three-quarters of people revealed that hearing rescue stories that helped motivate them to become backers of the cause.

A total of 70-per-cent of people believe they have helped encourage others to start supporting the RNLI by sharing rescue stories.

For more information, go to Rnli.org/savelives