INSPIRED by pioneering eighteenth century Hampshire naturalist Gilbert White, a woman is to undertake a 74 mile fundraising walk.

Rosemary Irwin, who is chairman of the trustees of Gilbert White’s House and the Oates Collection, will walk from Gilbert White’s former home in Selborne to Oriel College, Oxford. This route was a regular journey of White’s during his days as fellow of the college.

Everyone is welcome to join part or all of the walk, which will commence on April 27 and will take nine days to complete.

The Reverend Gilbert White was a naturalist, scientist, writer, gardener, clergyman and countryman. His book The Natural History of Selborne (1789) is one of the most popular books in the English language and has never been out of print.

Rosemary said: “This walk is all about making Gilbert White’s huge contribution to natural history and science better known, and to raise money for his museum and garden in Selborne so that we can celebrate his life and work.

“My ambition is to ensure that this museum continues to grow and to fascinate lovers of the English landscape and nature for years to come.”

The Museum celebrates the lives of not only Gilbert White, but also two other pioneers of the natural world - Frank Oates (1840-1875), who was one of the first Europeans to see the Victoria Falls and his cousin, Captain Lawrence Oates (1880-1912), a member of Scott's Antarctic Expedition.

The walk costs £25 per person per day and £10 per dog per day.

Children under 18 are welcome for free but the pace will not be suitable for those under 10.

Find out more online at gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk.