Uploaded July 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
In the fourth film of the Wild Westcountry Odyssey Prof J.W. Clarke wanders in Westhay in the Somerset Levels. He explores a wetland that is rich in wildlife and a forward-looking peat restoration project that is tackling climate change.
On his journey, John observes disused peat workings, long rooms, corridors, and roundabouts of water that are rapidly transforming into a wildlife paradise. Great highlights of wildlife moments include sightings of a kingfisher, great white egrets, a hen harrier and marsh harrier hunting, and a great crested grebe fishing.
John pays a poetic tribute to nature’s cycles of life, death, and renewal in this ancient mire, giving special attention to the carnivorous sundew plants. He celebrates the efforts of the Somerset Wildlife Trust, which, with the support of Natural England, is committed to restoring and enhancing these valuable ecosystems.
All images copyright Simon Willis Films
Marsh and Hen Harrier shots 2.27 to 2.34 copyright Andrew Kirby licenced to SW FILMS
All music copyright Audio Networks as listed on music details
Poems copyright John Wedgwood Clarke
In the fourth film of the Wild Westcountry Odyssey Prof J.W. Clarke wanders in Westhay in the Somerset Levels. He explores a wetland that is rich in wildlife and a forward-looking peat restoration project that is tackling climate change.
On his journey, John observes disused peat workings, long rooms, corridors, and roundabouts of water that are rapidly transforming into a wildlife paradise. Great highlights of wildlife moments include sightings of a kingfisher, great white egrets, a hen harrier and marsh harrier hunting, and a great crested grebe fishing.
John pays a poetic tribute to nature’s cycles of life, death, and renewal in this ancient mire, giving special attention to the carnivorous sundew plants. He celebrates the efforts of the Somerset Wildlife Trust, which, with the support of Natural England, is committed to restoring and enhancing these valuable ecosystems.
All images copyright Simon Willis Films
Marsh and Hen Harrier shots 2.27 to 2.34 copyright Andrew Kirby licenced to SW FILMS
All music copyright Audio Networks as listed on music details
Poems copyright John Wedgwood Clarke
