A DALE geography professor is the latest to add a chapter to an updated book about the geology, flora, fauna and people of upper Teesdale.
Durham Wildlife Trust’s fifth edition of The Natural History of Upper Teesdale features a section on the geology of the area written by Mickleton resident Prof David Evans.
The Durham University expert’s chapter features original research, maps, aerial photographs and satellite imagery to explain how a range of features in the landscape have been formed by glaciation.
He explained it is “about helping people learn more about what’s under their feet”.
Prof Evans said: “Upper Teesdale was important during the last glaciation, 27,000 years ago because it had its own upland ice cap which grew over time and eventually joined up and became part of a much bigger ice sheet covering most of the British Isles.
“Many of the features that we see in the local landscape, such as the drumlins at Holwick, are there as a result of past glacial processes.”
Eggleston botanist Dr Margret Bradshaw, who has edited previous editions of the book and also contributed a chapter on Teesdale flora, said: “‘It is fantastic to have a local expert with a profound knowledge of this area’s geomorphology and glacial legacy contributing to this edition.”
The current edition is edited by Durham Wildlife Trust chairman Steve Gater and publication was made possible through a £9,700 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Mr Gater said: “The new edition is a fantastic testament to the enthusiasm that so many people have about the wonders of upper Teesdale and draws together expert knowledge to celebrate the dale. Upper Teesdale is rightly renowned for its natural history, locally, nationally and internationally.
“Thanks to funding from The Heritage Lottery Fund, the book and project are giving people a chance to learn about and savour this very special part of County Durham. We hope that people enjoy reading about the dale and joining the events that follow.”
The first edition of The Natural History of Upper Teesdale was published in 1965.
The book is available from Durham Wildlife Trust’s Rainton Meadows and Low Barns visitor centres.
Members are able to buy at a specially reduced price of £8 with a £2 postage and packing charge.
Non-members must pay £10 with a £2 postage and packing charge. Copies can ordered on 0191 584 3112 or by email at mail@durhamwt.co.uk.
