A Bridport shop will be hosting a "meet the author" event to raise money for Alzheimer’s Research UK.

Inspired By gift shop on South Street, Bridport will welcome author Patrick Davies on Saturday, February 10 to discuss his new book about his 1,400-mile journey from the southernmost point of England to the northern tip of Scotland.

Where Skylarks Sing is based on Patrick’s own struggles during the Covid-19 pandemic when he gave up his career in the Foreign Service in part to help care for his dad who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

Patrick, 55, subsequently felt inspired to go on the walk across the country to raise money for a cause close to his heart while also re-establishing a lost connection to the UK after a prolonged period abroad.

He said: “I veered off on a walk to come to terms with my dad’s decline in health while raising money for Alzheimer's Research. It was an incredible experience feeling reconnected to the country. The south west where I started the walk was a highlight. It’s a stunningly beautiful part of country and in good weather it’s even more beautiful and special.”

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: Patrick Davies on his 1400-mile journey from the southernmost point of England to the northern tip

Patrick also shares a great fondness for the Dorset area with frequent trips around the west country.

“I have very good friends who live not far from Dorchester. I've been coming down regularly for years. We go out walking on Jurassic Coast, to Lyme Regis and then to West Bay so it’s a place I know extremely well."

The event is free to attend, and a collection tin will be made available with all contributions going towards Alzheimer’s Research UK.

Emma Bratley opened Inspired By in October 2022 and Patrick and his family were some of the first visitors to walk through the doors. The independent shop sells a mixture of both artisan made and manufactured products all exclusively from Britain.

She said: “I first met Patrick when he came in with his parents not long after we opened in October 2022, and I very much enjoyed chatting with his father at the time. We have stayed in touch, and he has always been very supportive of my shop and the ethos behind it so when he published his book Where Skylarks Sing, I wanted to stock it to support him.

"He has raised over £45,000 for them and I am hoping we can add to that total on Saturday."

The event will run from 11am to 1.30pm and will be a "nice and informal" chance for Patrick to share his story and answer any questions the public have.