West Dorset filmmaker George Earwicker has launched an online fundraising campaign for a new project, which is drawing on local scenery and actors.

The film – working title 1916 - is a love story and explores themes of nature, love and time set against the background of the Great War.

A particular focus is how closeness to nature can connect and liberate us, using the beautiful landscapes of Dorset.

George said: "Our area is close to my heart, and this film is a love letter to the place I grew up in."

George, aged 23, a Falmouth University Film School graduate, is working closely with other young film-making talent in West Dorset, including self-taught cinematographer Elliot Millson and actors from a creative group based at Bridport Arts Centre.

In a first for George, he is using an intimacy co-ordinator to ensure that the romantic scenes in 1916 are handled sensitively.

"I used a stunt dog in my graduation film - Anti from Afterlife – and always like to push myself professionally with each project," he said.

A start has already been made raising the £7,000 needed to make the film and George has set up a fundraiser to help meet the target – donations can be made online at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/georgeearwicker/1916-zero-budget-feature-film

He said: "I know times are tough, but any help people can give to get this film off the ground would be really appreciated."

He is looking forward to showing the finished movie to local audiences in the summer.