VETERAN explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes is exchanging exotic locations for Dorset next week to help raise awareness of a Dorset-led charity.

In December, David Whiddon and Lloyd Figgins are rowing from Morocco to Antigua to raise funds for the RNLI.

A number of sporting celebrities including James Cracknell have given their support to the venture and Sir Ranulph is doing his bit with an evening’s talk and discussion session at Lighthouse in Poole’s on September 21.

David said: “I have met Ran on a few occasions as we are both members of the Royal Geographic Society.

“I asked him if he could endorse our challenge and it went from there, and he agreed to be the expedition patron which was a huge boost for us.

“He is the epitome of adventure and exploration and to have someone like that on board, supporting us is a huge boost. He is a huge inspiration and it means a lot to have his support.”

An evening with Sir Ranulph Fiennes, who has also been voted one of the world’s top ten speakers, aims to inspire and motivate. The evening consists of a talk, followed by a Q&A session and ending with a book signing. Tickets are £20.

In completely contrast, the following night sees Charles Ross bring his One Man Star Wars Trilogy show to the venue. In this fabulous 60-minute performance, Charles single-handedly plays all the characters, sings the music, flies the ships, fights the battles and beats the Empire.

The performance is at 7.30pm and tickets are £16. For all Lighthouse bookings, call 0844 406 8666.