Prince William sends Sir David Attenborough very special message today

has wished a very happy 99th birthday as the famous broadcaster marks the key milestone by . In a message released on social media, the Prince of Wales said: "As he turns 99 today, in his new film, Sir David has once again reminded us of the need to protect natural habitats - this time those beneath the ocean.

"He has dedicated his life to ensuring we understand the realities of what mankind is doing to the planet. However hard-hitting his message is, Sir David always leaves us with a sense of hope and optimism that all is not lost and this film is no different.We must act together, with urgency, to restore our oceans.Happy Birthday, David. W."

Other fans of have flocked to social media to comment under the post of William and the TV broadcaster. One fan wrote: "He is a wonderful human no wonder he was so close to QEII []."

Another said: "That's a wonderful photo. Happy Birthday to the legend that is Sir David Attenborough."

The premiere of the film, Ocean with David Attenborough, took place on Tuesday evening at the Royal Festival Hall. William attended a matinee in a "private capacity", along with hundreds of children from schools across the country, while the King attended the evening event.

King Charles, a lifelong environmentalist, walked the 'blue carpet' at London's Royal Festival Hall

The King has met Sir David several times before as his work as an ambassador for the natural world and his passion for the planet overlap with the King's own work to promote sustainability and protect nature and the oceans.

Ocean With as it takes viewers through 100 years of discoveries about Earth's seas. The presenter hopes the film could help protect the planet from climate change.

He filmed with crew members over two years to show coral reefs, kelp forests and the open seas, to show why healthy oceans are so important for keeping the planet stable.

Sir David has also promoted a plant-based diet in recent years. While not a strict vegetarian, he has significantly reduced his red meat consumption and has stated that he is "much more vegetarian than I ever thought I would be" and has promoted the benefits of a plant-based diet.