A children's book author who hails originally from Liskeard will be in the waves as he launches his ocean-themed book today.
I Spoke to the Sea is described as an "intimate and heartfelt story of the sea" and writer Ben Rowswell has teamed up with illustrator Amelia Brooks for the project.
Launching the new book in Newquay this afternoon, Ben will be meeting young people attending a surf therapy session on Towan Beach.
He chose World Ocean Day for its launch to highlight the importance of ocean protection, the interconnected issues of climate and biodiversity and the 30x30 global campaign to have 30% of our oceans protected by 2030.
Ben says: “I’m passionate about telling stories that engage the reader with the natural environment because I know from experience that, when you get outside and engage with nature, you can open yourself to transformational experiences that connect you with the environment around you.
“I believe this is an important step towards protecting our environment and working towards solutions to the environmental emergency that we all face.
“It is so important with our modern schedules and the amount of time we spend on screens to take the time to reflect on the environment around us and the value it adds to our lives.”
Chris Hines, co-founder of campaign group Surfers Against Sewage, describes the book as: “A beautiful little journey of discovery, understanding and love…and when you love something you protect. A tale for us all…”
A proportion of the profits from I Spoke to the Sea will be donated to the Wave Project, a charity that supports young people to overcome trauma and build confidence through surfing and water sports