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A former England rugby international turned pundit has invested in a start-up developing what it describes as “the world’s first” free public relations platform.

David Flatman, who made more than 150 appearances as a prop for Bath Rugby before beginning a media career, has put an undisclosed amount behind Newspage, founded by Bath-based journalist and entrepreneur Dominic Hiatt.

Launched last year, the business is looking to enable small businesses, charities, or individuals seeking press coverage to directly connect with media outlets.

Users of Newspage’s platform are able to create their own “media centre” profile, which they can upload content or media to, and a “rapidly growing” number of journalists using it are able to find. Platform users also receive alerts from Newspage to news stories relevant to their interests or field, which they can contribute to, and send stories of their own to reporters.

Newspage said it had recently passed its first “major milestone” of 250,000 pieces of media exposure for its users - of which it said 90% are on its free plan, with the remainder paying a monthly subscription for the service.

The business is now developing a mobile app, which is set to go live at the start of next year, while it will also be launching in the US in the second quarter of 2023.

Mr Hiatt said: “Our goal is for everyone to have a Newspage, just as they have a Facebook and LinkedIn page. After all, everyone has stories and views to give, and now they have a platform through which to tell and share them in the mainstream media.

“And for many small businesses and charities, staying visible in the current economic climate is more important than ever.”