Benedict Cumberbatch is the voice behind a new short film by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity which highlights the ways supporters raise “vital” funds.

The Sherlock and Patrick Melrose star features in the ‘Heroes Behind the Heroes’ flick, showing how “one heroic act enables another”.

It will soon be shared with The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity’s supporters in a bid to tell the story about the importance of their fundraising.

Mr Cumberbatch, 42, said: “I was delighted to provide the voiceover for this amazing film about the work of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

“The Royal Marsden is renowned across the world for its exceptional research and incredible standards of patient treatment and care, and I know how vital the support of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity is to that.

“I am proud to be their ambassador.”

It was after meeting actress and The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity ambassador Siobhán Hewlett that Mr Cumberbatch became involved in the organisation’s work.

He supported her mother, TV and soap star Thérèse McMurray, who was diagnosed with a rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma during 2010.

The actor spent time at one of their hospitals supporting Mrs McMurray as she received chemotherapy treatment.

Siobhán said: “Without The Royal Marsden my mum wouldn’t be here. I’m permanently amazed and overwhelmed by the impeccable level of care and love from everyone at the hospital.

“The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity funds research that is revolutionising cancer treatment.

“The hospital’s researchers are recognised worldwide for their work which is improving the lives of patients with cancer, both at The Royal Marsden and across the world.”

You can see the new film here.