THE Dartmoor Society is inviting interested people to this year's Dartmoor Society Research Lecture on Friday, November 8.

The lecture, entitled 'Exploring Dartmoor's remarkable skin (from Cut Hill to Hameldown, Drogo and Tottiford — the soils of Chagford, Moretonhampstead and beyond)' will be given by Dr Tim Harrod at Dolphin Hotel, Bovey Tracey, at 7pm.

The soils of Dartmoor are the very skin of the moor on which all life forms depend, and play a vitally important part in farming, providing varied pasture and crops. Historically, peat was cut for fuel on the high moor.

Since retirement from the Soil Survey of England and Wales, for whom he worked from 1965 to 2001, Dr Tim Harrod has singlehandedly completed the mapping of north-eastern Dartmoor in a magisterial ground survey, taking him from the highest ground 600m above sea-level to lowland fields around Chagford and Moretonhampstead.

His illustrated talk will describe the soil types of north-east Dartmoor and why they matter economically, culturally and socially. His survey has revealed much new data, and several unexpected and unusual findings.

Dr Tom Greeves, chairman of the Dartmoor Society, said: 'We are delighted to host Dr Tim Harrod's lecture on the remarkably varied and fascinating soils of Dartmoor.

'His work will be of great benefit to present and future generations who need to know what lies beneath their feet. We expect everyone to be intrigued and maybe astonished by what he tells us.'

Booking in advance is essential for this event. Places can be reserved for £7.50 for members, and £9.50 for non-members, which includes a light buffet after the lecture. Please send names, addresses and an email or telephone contact with a cheque, made payable to The Dartmoor Society, to PO Box 38, Tavistock, PL19 0XJ by November 1.

For information or enquiries email [email protected]">[email protected]