A REVEREND has written a book exploring nature and wildlife in the county’s churchyards.

The Reverend Dr Mark Betson, rural officer for the Diocese of Chichester, co-wrote The Nature Of God’s Acre along with wildlife expert Miles King.

The book explores how parishes value their churchyards and the spirituality of nature.

Dr Betson said: “Ancient churchyards lie at the heart of many communities and they are unique places where people and nature can thrive together.”

A total of 175 people from 26 communities contributed to the book and there are sections on every Sussex parish which took part.

Mr King said: “I have always believed that nature plays a central role in people’s spiritual lives and what we have discovered in putting together this book is testament to that belief.”

A book launch at the Flimwell Woodland Enterprise Centre, near Wadhurst, will be held on Friday, hosted by the Bishop of Chichester, Dr Martin Warner.

The book is £5 and will be available from the Cloisters Shop at Chichester Cathedral and Books Alive, Hove, as well as online.