A WELL known Dartmoor enthusiast will be sharing his knowledge and expertise on the ancient landscape next month.

Paul Rendell will be talking to visitors at Okehampton Library about Dartmoor towns and villages, in celebration of World Book Day.

Cllr Christine Marsh said: 'I have known Paul for a number of years and know his talk will be very interesting and entertaining.

'I hope people will come and have an enjoyable evening.'

The county council's executive member for culture, Cllr Sheila Hobden, said: 'Paul is such a well-known local figure and is someone with an enormous passion for Dartmoor.

'He has put in the hard work to make his career out of it. He is always an entertaining speaker.'

Mr Rendell gained his enthusiasm for Dartmoor at an early age on family walks, which left him particularly fascinated by the moor's industrial archaeology and wildlife.

He is the conservation officer for Dartmoor Preservation Association and a committee member for Okehampton and district branch of the Devonshire Association. He is also editor of the Dartmoor Railway Newsletter.

Over the years he has introduced countless people to the delights of walking on Dartmoor and has written many articles for newspapers and magazines.

He has written a book, Exploring the Lower Walkham Valley, and in 1991 founded the monthly magazine Dartmoor News, which he still edits.

The event, which is supported by the Friends of Okehampton Library, takes place on Thursday March 5 at 7pm.

Tickets, £2 in advance, to include refreshments, are available from Okehampton Library.