OSCAR-winning actor Sir Mark Rylance has become patron of the Planet Purbeck community group.

Sir Mark, who recently appeared on screen as scheming Thomas Cromwell in TV’s Wolf Hall, said he was “honoured” to accept the position.

And Planet Purbeck said it was “beyond thrilled” to have the support of such a significant figurehead.

The actor, who won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 2015 for his performance in Bridge of Spies, is a dedicated environmentalist who regards Purbeck as his home and is a firm believer in the “bonding” power of communities to influence an uncertain future, the group said.

He said he considers Planet Purbeck to be a prime example and shares its vision of protecting and enhancing the area’s glorious natural resources, involving residents in conservation projects and doing what it can to alleviate climate change.

“I’m honoured to become the Patron of Planet Purbeck. When I was asked to do so, I had no hesitation in accepting,” he went on.

“I note wise advice, as the international scene becomes so volatile, that forming stronger bonds among ourselves in local communities is the best way to prepare for all possible futures.

“Working together as a community to appreciate and improve our relationship with our small portion of earth, water, air and fire and all our fellow plant and animal communities is the best insurance we can procure for the future.”

When acting commitments allow, Sir Mark hopes to actively support Planet Purbeck beyond his patronage and is currently formulating possibilities.

He said: “I have been aware for some time of the group’s determined work in conservation and ecology, which is dear to my heart.

“And it seems to me that in recent times they have stepped up a gear by becoming directly involved in some fantastic local projects such as the Swanage Streams Partnership to revitalise the Swan Brook and efforts to introduce Purbeck’s natural wonders to more schoolchildren via the Purbeck Goes Wild initiative. It will be a pleasure for me to see how these programmes progress.”

Planet Purbeck chair, Doug Skinner, said: “I am beyond thrilled that Sir Mark has become our Patron.

“It is so important for Planet Purbeck, at this stage in its development, in terms of raising awareness and attracting additional support.

“An endorsement from such a renowned figure is both a big thankyou to all those who have worked tirelessly to get us where we are and massive encouragement for us to push further with our aims.

“We have a large programme of activities planned and we are hugely grateful for Sir Mark’s support.”

For more on the Planet Purbeck group, including upcoming events, visit planetpurbeck.org.