Rick’s latest book is ‘A Year on the Fosse’ relates the history of the famous Roman road and the cities and market towns that grew up where the legions had established forts along this straight defensive line. Fossa in Latin means ditch, and beside the ditch the road was beautifully paved with stone, so that troops, wagons and chariots could be moved at speed in all weathers.
The quarries they established have been expanded over the centuries, and many turned into lakes and pools that are now nature reserves. The book describes the wildlife that can be found along the course of The Fosse Way, changing with the seasons on a journey from Lincoln, through the East Midlands Wolds and the woodlands of Warwickshire, across the Cotswolds to the rich cider country of Somerset through Bath to the wide Exe estuary where the invaders unloaded their supplies.
There are plenty of fascinating stories from the cities, market towns and villages along the 230-mile journey. The pencil-straight Fosse Way is like a slice through the centre of England, revealing its origins and traditions.
“A seamless blend of history, wildlife and curious stories … but the underlying messages of the need to protect our biodiversity and combat climate change ring loud and clear.” Rene Wyndham, journalist and broadcaster.
‘A Year on the Fosse’ published in October 2024 is available in most good bookshops, and online at Amazon, Waterstones, Hive Books and Blackwells among other online booksellers.
‘A River Avon Year’, follows ‘Shakespeare’s Avon’ month-by-month through the centre of England, describing the fascinating wildlife, and relating the human dramas that have played out on its banks. From Naseby to Watling Street and from Evesham to Tewkesbury, the Avon has played a part in bloody battles that changed British history.
The riverside towns – Rugby – Leamington Spa – Warwick – Stratford – the Vale of Evesham and Bredon Hill – all have their stories and some surprises. Soaring Abbey churches, raging floods, nature reserves, castles and ancient bridges, poetry and music, all play their part in the story of the Avon that flows 88 miles from Northamptonshire, through Warwickshire and Worcestershire to its confluence with the Severn in Gloucestershire.
Each chapter covers a short section of the river, and there are pen and ink sketches by the author introducing each section.
“It’s like taking a walk with a knowledgeable friend. The narrative weaves its way with the river, revealing insights into history, landscape and nature.” Penny Dale, Author and Illustrator.
‘A River Avon Year’ is available at many bookshops, and from all the main online booksellers. Price £10.00
Rick’s book,‘Park Life’, takes readers through a year in the life of a large urban park by the River Avon in Warwickshire, closely observing the changing moods of the seasons. He describes the discovery of surprising rarities and reveals some fascinating facts about the wildlife close at hand, with folklore and legend linked to many species.
“Most naturalists yearn to move out of the city and into the countryside. Rick did the opposite. Yet his new setting proves there is just as much wildlife in urban as in rural areas, if not more. A fascinating diary of a year of discovery.” Stephen Moss, Naturalist and Author.
The writer also reflects on the importance of accessible green spaces for our physical and mental wellbeing. With four out of five of us living in towns and cities, regular contact with nature has never been more important – to lift the spirits and provide stimulating experiences.
As with ‘A River Avon Year’ and ‘A Year on the Fosse’, each chapter is illustrated with a pen and ink drawing by the author and the cover pictures are his illustrations.
All Rick’s books are available at many good bookshops, and online from Amazon, Hive Books, Waterstones, Foyles, and other online booksellers.
