The Secret Lives of Red Squirrels

WARNING: Ridiculously cute animals feature prominently in this blog post 

Calling all bookworms, photographers and animal lovers...

Don't miss the chance to see the unique and charming personalities of the red squirrel come alive in a brand new book!

'On The Trail of Red Squirrels' is a brand new book published by Will Nicholls, a good friend of mine who also happens to be a self-taught, award-winning local wildlife photographer. Having won a string of awards - namely RSPCA Young Photographer, Young British Wildlife Photographer and most recently the ZSL Animal Photographer Prize 2013 - Will's new book is his latest achievement and really does deserve the North East's support. 

''The first time the squirrel spotted the camera sitting idly on the woodland floor was a moment I will always remember'' 

Will spent six years feeding a family of red squirrels who live in a nearby wood in Northumberland. He set up his own hide and patiently tried to gain their trust so they’d make an appearance long enough for him to position his camera. Once in sight, Will strives to capture the unique personalities of the squirrels and has certainly succeeded in capturing the charming and sometimes cheeky poses of resident red squirrels. On The Trail Of Red Squirrels provides a fascinating and unique insight into the elusive, and sadly endangered red squirrel, thanks to Will's unrelenting passion (and patience!). Thanks to generous donations, Will was able to get his debut book published by local publishers Wagtail Press which is available to buy locally in Corbridge from Forum Books www.forumbooks.co.uk, Will's website www.willnicholls.co.uk and Amazon. 

''A squirrel will grab hold of a hazelnut between its paws, turning it several times to determine its contents. Sometimes it will find a bad nut and discard it''

Will hopes that his new book will provide a window into the secretive world of red squirrels as he shares his unique insight into their world. I have been lucky enough to receive a copy already and I can tell you that this glossy book is an absolute delight. Each image is more impressive and beautiful than the last and I love Will's honest and funny commentary throughout. I don't want to spoil it for you but I have a feeling you'll love the part about 'Lucky' just as much as I did! 

''My favourite characteristic of red squirrels is, of course, their beautiful red coats'' 

This blog is as much about celebrating local talent as it is independent businesses and places to visit, so I thought I'd share a few photos with you from this exciting new book. Will is currently on expedition in Cambodia, but you can follow his progress on his blog by clicking here, or by following him on twitter. 

Hello World

For those of you who have stumbled upon my little blog in the hope of some good quality reading while you procrastinate, let me see what I can do. 

Let me introduce myself...

I am a 22 year old English Literature graduate from Newcastle University (sob, how did that happen so quickly?) who lives by the sea with her family and two little dogs. Through a combination of hard work, resourcefulness and I suppose initiative, I am extremely lucky enough to currently work full time as a writer at a prominent local magazine. After three months of full time, unpaid work experience and working an extra job, I am pleased to say that unlike most recent graduates (if the media is to be believed), I found myself a full time job. 

Why blog?

This is not my first foray in the blogging world, I also have another blog dedicated to my little zoo/animal rescue centre I take care of in my spare time. Family and friends know just how passionate and ambitious I am, and while I haven't managed to knock out a bestseller just yet, they do know how much I love to write. Working for the magazine and seeing my name and work in print is possibly one of my favourite things in the world, so why not do it every day for free? The only thing stopping me of course, is the worry, would anyone read what I write?

I'm a huge believer in the power of social media, my personal favourite being undoubtedly pinterest and tumblr. Browsing the popular pages on pinterest and repinning lovely/inspirational things is such as positive way to use social media. I love the way social media keeps everybody in touch; from granny and grandkids in Australia, to long lost friends or those who share your interests, everybody has a friend on social media. 

So if you'd like to stay in touch, pop over and say hello to me on my new twitter:

@proseccoandpie