Rick Thompson is a former journalist and broadcaster and a lifelong birdwatcher. He worked for BBC News for 27 years, first as a reporter, presenter and producer in Birmingham, then as a senior editor with BBC TV News and the World Service. He returned to the Midlands as the BBC's Head of News, Current Affairs and Local Programmes. Later his consultancy, 'T-Media', organised dozens of training workshops and development projects for public service broadcasters in the former Communist countries of Europe. For four years Rick was a member of the Governing Council of the RSPB. He is regularly asked to moderate European conferences on the environment, biodiversity, renewable energy and climate change. He says, "I believe that exposure to nature is incredibly important for people's physical and mental well-being, and getting to know more about the natural world is fascinating. Equally, understanding the history embedded in the landscape that surrounds you is illuminating."

Full of fascinating stories and descriptions of the wildlife to be found along the river that runs like an artery through the heart of England - David Kelham, High Sheriff of Warwickshire. 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. And the illustrations are lovely - Penny Dale, Author and Illustrator. A beautiful book about English nature and history, written in a witty and accessible style - Nic Hallam, British Birds.

Rick Thompson is a former journalist and broadcaster and a lifelong birdwatcher. He worked for BBC News for 27 years, first as a reporter, presenter and producer in Birmingham, then as a senior editor with BBC TV News and the World Service. He returned to the Midlands as the BBC's Head of News, Current Affairs and Local Programmes. Later his consultancy, 'T-Media', organised dozens of training workshops and development projects for public service broadcasters in the former Communist countries of Europe. For four years Rick was a member of the Governing Council of the RSPB. He is regularly asked to moderate European conferences on the environment, biodiversity, renewable energy and climate change. He says, "I believe that exposure to nature is incredibly important for people's physical and mental well-being, and getting to know more about the natural world is fascinating. Equally, understanding the history embedded in the landscape that surrounds you is illuminating."

Full of fascinating stories and descriptions of the wildlife to be found along the river that runs like an artery through the heart of England - David Kelham, High Sheriff of Warwickshire. 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. And the illustrations are lovely - Penny Dale, Author and Illustrator. A beautiful book about English nature and history, written in a witty and accessible style - Nic Hallam, British Birds.

Rick Thompson is a former journalist and broadcaster and a lifelong birdwatcher. He worked for BBC News for 27 years, first as a reporter, presenter and producer in Birmingham, then as a senior editor with BBC TV News and the World Service. He returned to the Midlands as the BBC's Head of News, Current Affairs and Local Programmes. Later his consultancy, 'T-Media', organised dozens of training workshops and development projects for public service broadcasters in the former Communist countries of Europe. For four years Rick was a member of the Governing Council of the RSPB. He is regularly asked to moderate European conferences on the environment, biodiversity, renewable energy and climate change. He says, "I believe that exposure to nature is incredibly important for people's physical and mental well-being, and getting to know more about the natural world is fascinating. Equally, understanding the history embedded in the landscape that surrounds you is illuminating."

Full of fascinating stories and descriptions of the wildlife to be found along the river that runs like an artery through the heart of England - David Kelham, High Sheriff of Warwickshire. 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. And the illustrations are lovely - Penny Dale, Author and Illustrator. A beautiful book about English nature and history, written in a witty and accessible style - Nic Hallam, British Birds.