AN illustrated talk on the nature of Nether Stowey is to be presented later this month in the village’s Thomas Poole Library.

It will be given by local naturalist Nigel Phillips, author of the book ‘The Nature of the Quantocks’.

The book presents an intimate look at the Quantock Hills’ mixture of hilltop heathland, oak woodland set in deep combes, and many fast-flowing streams, which combine to create its designated National Landscape.

The detailed and informative book covers the well-known flowering plants and ferns, birdlife, and mammals of the hills.

It also explores lesser-known wildlife, with chapters on mosses and liverworts, fungi and lichens, and invertebrates.

Mr Phillips, who was a nature reserve manager and ecologist for the Wildlife Trusts for more than 30 years, has also written three books about the wildlife of Somerset’s coast.

He is a Somerset Wildlife Trust coast ambassador and set up and chaired the trust’s marine awareness campaign, which has run a programme of coastal and marine events along the coast for several years.

The talk on Wednesday, April 15, starts at 7.30 pm and costs £6 for adults, with free entry for children.

A spokesperson said: “It is a reminder that we do not have to travel to experience nature.

“Nigel offers insights into the wildlife and plants we can all find in our gardens, the Stowey brook, and the woods in and around the village.

“A true celebration of all things local.”

The spokesperson said anybody who enjoyed reading and trying new books should join the library’s book group, which was a ‘fun, low-key reading group’ meeting in the library from 2.30 pm to 3.30 pm on the last Friday of each month.

The group’s book for April is ‘Persuasion’, by Jane Austen, which will be discussed on Friday, April 24.