Visiting the New Forest

Gerald Ponting


Regions:
Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire
Notice Period:
Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
Type:
Experienced
Fee:
Paid: £60 + travel - or £50 on Zoom
Category:
Nature
Updated:
13th February 2022

The New Forest is Britain’s smallest National Park. It is an unique part of southern England, where medieval woodlands have somehow survived into the 21st century. Its varied countryside also includes extensive heathlands, rare valley mires and the Solent coast.

My photographs, specially taken for my book ‘Visitor Guide to the New Forest’, illustrate all of these habitats. They also reveal the history and unique traditions of the area – not least the free-ranging and iconic New Forest Ponies.

Within the park there are towns, villages and hamlets which have much to offer. Visitor attractions include gardens, museums and stately homes, notably Beaulieu Abbey and National Motor Museum.

Many local people who have seen this talk have remarked that places were shown that they had been unaware of.

Views: 692 | Enquiries: 2

About Gerald Ponting

With a background in talks using colour slides, dating back several decades, I found the conversion to digital presentations allowed much more scope for my illustrated talks. All are illustrated by my award-winning photography and most include short musical interludes. I am frequently praised for my enthusiasm and knowledge of my subjects.
My special interests include wild flowers, local history and prehistoric stone circles. I also present talks on photography and travel.
My part-time occupation as a speaker dates back to 1965. In 1984, I addressed a number of groups in the United States, including Harvard and the Smithsonian Institution. Since early retirement, my talks have become much in demand by numerous local societies. I also present talks more widely, thanks to ZOOM.
I grew up on a small farm in Hampshire. As a Biology Teacher, my 30-year career was divided between Suffolk, Stornoway (Isle of Lewis) and back in Hampshire. I have written over 20 books on the local history of several Hampshire communities. My new book on wild flowers – their folklore and the origin of their names – was published in November 2023.
AN UNSOLICITED TESTIMONIAL: What a revelation! A speaker who not only knew his subject, but spoke from the heart ... without pauses, hesitations, ‘umm’ & ‘errs’. His illustrations kept coming ... highlighting his subject matter ... and weren’t covered in bullet points. If only other so-called ‘speakers' whom we have Zoomed ... were as interesting and professional in their approach to such presentations and had been as good. Highly recommended viewing ... - member of Wherwell History Group


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