Edward Giles

Hello

I have ever been excited about anything feathered, particularly those with webbed feet! By the age of thirteen, I was lucky enough to start a collection of waterfowl at my family home in Shropshire.

Eight years later, after graduating from university and having learnt so much about these charismatic birds, I was eager to write a book to enthuse and encourage others of the same age to start to enjoy wildlife - such as birds - but especially waterfowl! Early on I wasn't sure where to start in the writing industry so I turned to the WWT (Wildfowl Wetlands Trust) to seek some advice and help along the way.

I had been working alongside the trust during the management of my own collection as well as volunteering at many of their 9 centres around the UK. Moreover, I am a true fitness fanatic, having run 3 marathons in 3 years not so long ago to raise money supporting various sustainability projects. The most notable two being 'Mission Madagascar' which successfully reintroduced the endemic & eponymous Pochard as well as research towards the intrepid migratory Greenland White-fronted goose.

The small part I have played raised over 5,000 pounds at the time.

Whilst I plan to continue further fundraising initiatives and raise awareness about the importance of nature, a huge endeavour of mine is to further my writing exploits. In doing so, encourage children to engage with & understand the natural world.

The 'Down at the Duckpond' series will hopefully go some way to connecting with young readers in this way.

Edward :)