At the next Trinity Talk on Monday 16 October, local naturalist Brian Clews will give a talk entitled Where Have You Been Hiding, Ratty?


Kenneth Grahame wrote ‘Wind in the Willows’ featuring the delightful Ratty (in fact a Water Vole, not a rat!) while he was living in Cookham.

Having lost these creatures some 30 years ago, WildCookham re-introduced the water vole locally in 2022. Brian’s talk describes their life-style and the project.

Brian has lived in the area for more than 50 years and been involved with the local RSPB Group for 40 years. He published the monthly Berkshire Bird Bulletin for 30 years to 2001 and is a co-author for the latest Berkshire Bird Atlas project (a county-wide survey and conservation programme). He has written three other local books and contributed to more than 30 natural history books and is a founder member of WildCookham.


The Talks are held at Bel and The Dragon in Cookham High Street on the third Monday of the month (usually) and celebrate the talents of people living in Cookham and its environs. These are fund-raising events for Holy Trinity Church.


Everyone is welcome, but capacity is limited, so it is advisable to check in advance. Places at £20 each can be reserved by phone on 01628 527465 or by email (stephaniediggon@hotmail.com). Pay cash on arrival from 6.30pm at Bel and The Dragon for Prosecco and canapés, the talk starts at 7pm and finishes around 8pm.