A DAY of talks celebrating a rich history, archaeology, culture, and literature is in store when the first Quantock Heritage Symposium takes place next month.

Leading experts, together with researchers, historians, and heritage specialists will explore everything on the Quantock Hills from prehistoric landscapes and folk songs to local history and historic photography.

The event, from 10 am to 4 pm in Crowcombe Village Hall on October 3,will also celebrate the life and work of local historian Audrey Mead, whose dedication to recording and sharing the history of the Quantock Hills has greatly enriched understanding of the area.

It is being organised by the Quantock Hills National Landscape (QHNL) and tickets include a light lunch.

A QHNL spokesperson said fresh perspectives would be shared on the unique and remarkable landscape of the hills.

The keynote speaker will be recently-retired Somerset County Archaeologist Bob Croft with a personal view of the extraordinary heritage of the Quantock Hills, drawing on his distinguished career researching, conserving, and championing the historic environment of the county.

Other speakers include University of Winchester’s Dr Sabine Stevenson, whose work helps map and understand the prehistoric landscapes of the Quantock Hills.

Yvette Staelens will explore the area’s rich tradition of folk song, while Terence Sackett will examine the value of historic collections, concentrating on David Worthy’s extensive collection of historic photographs of the Quantocks, and how to increase accessibility to these to a wider audience.

Archaeological illustrator Jane Brayne will showcase her work reconstructing the historic landscapes of the Quantock Hills and their combes, bringing past communities and environments vividly to life.

Dan Broadbent, former Quantock Landscape Partnership Scheme historic heritage officer, will reflect on the scheme’s achievements and discoveries made by local volunteers.

Members of the recently-formed Quantock Heritage Group will share how they are continuing this important work and building on the partnership’s success.