Down to Earth: Robert Ashton

In Down to Earth, Robert Ashton traces our evolving relationship with the soil from Neolithic flint miners to modern day naturists. By engaging with the people who work the land – gardeners, farmers, gravediggers and archaeologists – he unearths a wealth of practical wisdom, moving from the mysteries of ancient folklore to the urgency of today's environmental crisis.

In conversation with nature writer Patrick Barkham, Ashton will explore our connection to the earth, seeking to deepen our understanding of its importance. All life depends on the soil, and this book serves as a vital call to treat our most precious resource with the reverence and respect it deserves.

The event will be followed by book sales and a signing with the author.

Tickets: £8

Robert Ashton

Robert Ashton is well known in Norfolk. A graduate of the UEA Creative Writing MA his latest book, Down to Earth was published in July by Wilton Square Books. Prompted by the realisation that we have largely lost our connection to the natural world, Robert Ashton traces centuries of human relationships with the soil, from farming and folklore to the modern environmental crisis. In so doing he reveals the wisdom of the gardeners, farmers, gravediggers, archaeologists and even naturists. Each chapter focuses on an aspect of our connection to the earth beneath our feet, seeking to deepen our understanding of its importance and encourage us to take its preservation more seriously.

Hosted by Patrick Barkham

Patrick Barkham is Natural History Writer for The Guardian and an award-winning author of books including The Butterfly Isles and The Swimmer, a biography of Roger Deakin. He is President of Norfolk Wildlife Trust and lives in Norfolk with his family.