A TRIO of Essex-based natural history writers are visiting the new Essex Wildlife Trust visitor centre in Mucking.

The three authors will be talking about their passion for the natural world and the source of inspiration for their work in the setting of the new Thameside Nature Park, with its panoramic views and offerings of natural bliss.

The event is part of the Essex Book Festival programme being held throughout March.

Ted Benton, who has written a number of natural history books and is a familiar name to nature lovers living in Essex, will be the key note speaker at the event, called Inspiration for Nature, in March.

A renowned author on various nature ooks on some of the county’s insects are what Ted is perhaps best known for. He wrote the likes of Bumblebees of Essex and Dragonflies of Essex.

He has also written critically acclaimed books on insects for the long-running New Naturalist books published by Collins.

He shall be passing on his wisdom and inspiration of some the county’s weird and wonderful insects at the event.

Ted will be joined by two up-and-coming nature authors: Ross Gardner and Andrew Fallan.

Ross will be talking about his new book Never a Dull Momen’, which looks at how his passion for nature evolved from a childhood interest.

The author, who is said to write poetically and philosophically on natures wonders, will also be discussing ways nature can affect every aspect of life.

Andrew is a keen birdwatcher and will be discussing his new book, Winging it – Birding for Low-flyers, which offers a down-to-earth view on birdwatching.

The talk will be on Friday, March 8, starting at 7pm and finishing at 9pm. Tickets cost £5 for adults and £4 for concessions.

Visit www.essexbookfestival.org.uk/events