A new book about fellwalker and guidebook writer, Alfred Wainwright, has been published.
The book is written by retired social secretary of the Wainwright Society Derek Cockell.
It is inspired by Wainwright’s memory, recounted in the first of his pictorial guides, The Eastern Fells, of an encounter he had with a newt in the waters of Hard Tarn.
Wainwright had pondered what its purpose and mission could be, living in the waters of this isolated tarn high up in the mountains.
It led him to think about himself – these two beings shared a common bond at that moment.
If that small creature had a purpose and there was meaning to its life, then how much more did he have a purpose, a mission to fulfil?
The book seeks to define how Wainwright interpreted his vision and purpose through his books and correspondence with his many admirers, covering themes such as nature and the natural world, landscape, beauty, imagination, and emotions.
His books reveal his desire to show his readers the importance of treating the landscape and nature kindlier and with greater respect.
For Wainwright, it was the way to peace of mind, true happiness, and contentment, just as he found on that day at Hard Tarn.
All profits from sales of the book after publication costs will be donated to The Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association, whose individual members provide a life-saving emergency service to walkers and others in danger on the fells.
‘A Newt in Hard Tarn’ can be bought from www.wainwright.org.uk.
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