A FRENCH film director is to use locations in Weymouth and Portland to film a major documentary about the D-Day landings.

Rodolphe Rutman is making a major ten-part series about the invasion for French national television, which will be shown during the 60th anniversary celebrations next year.

He was in town this week checking locations and preparing for his week-long shoot during the first week of September.

Mr Rutman will be filming an American GI who was based in Dorset during the build-up to the invasion, and who sailed with the liberation fleet on the night of June 5, 1944.

The soldier's story will be featured in the documentary, alongside that of a German soldier who defended the beaches in Normandy, France.

Many of the scenes in the UK will be filmed on the Esplanade and around Portland harbour.

Mr Rutman, 40, explained the purpose of his visit to ex-servicemen and women at the monthly veterans' rendezvous in the Pavillion ballroom.

He said: "Many of the soldiers who fought on D-Day were young recruits - both the Americans and the Canadians.

"A lot of people in Dorset still have vivid memories of that time and the soldiers who were stationed here.

"I hope I can speak to as many people during my visit as possible."

The director said that he hoped the memories revived by his film would build a few bridges between France and America. The nations suffered several diplomatic rows during the recent Iraq conflict.

It was the Parisian's first visit to Weymouth, and he said he found the town very interesting.

"Everybody has been very friendly, especially the council who are helping us film.

"I am looking forward to coming back." he said.

He also appealed for a family in Weymouth to host the American soldier and his wife during their stay in September.

A room will be needed from Monday to Sunday, September 1 to 7.

If you can help, please contact Jacqui Gisborne at Weymouth and Portland council on 01305 838000.