Natural history film maker David Attenborough has been joined by royalty and celebrities at Australia House in London for a special pre-screening of a new documentary series on the Great Barrier Reef

Nearly 60 years since he last filmed on the reef, Attenborough has returned to make a three-part series featuring the latest in film techniques and marine science to bring the reef to audiences around the world.

Sir David Attenborough back at the Great Barrier Reef. Credit:Atlantic Productions

The 89-year-old was joined on Wednesday night by Prince Philip, entertainer Barry Humphries, scientist Tim Flannery, actor Helena Bonham Carter and celebrity chefs Rick Stein and Heston Blumenthal for the screening of the first episode.

On a sand carpet laid down for guests entering Australia House for the event, Humphries said he was a "huge admirer and old friend" of Attenborough.