ONE of the world's leading scientists will mark the opening of a natural history week at University College Worcester.

Professor Aubrey Manning, president of the Abberley and Malvern Hills Geopark and producer of the Earth Story TV series, will speak at the Henwick Grove college at 2pm, on Saturday, May 29.

The family lecture will cover the physical history of the Earth - focusing on the geology of Herefordshire and Worcestershire - and mark the start of International Geopark Week.

"We're delighted that Professor Manning has agreed to deliver his inaugural presidential lecture here at UCW," said Dr Peter Oliver, director of the Geopark.

"From a geological point of view, we live in one of the most fascinating areas of the country and it's very rewarding to see so many people becoming interested in their surroundings."

The Abberley and Malvern Hills Geopark includes a total of 1,250sq kms in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Shropshire.

It represents 500 million years of geological history with diverse rock types and fossils, 13 Sites of Special Scientific Interest and 62 Regionally Important Geological Sites.

The lecture costs £2 per adult but children can attend free. Contact UCW on 01905 855184 to reserve places.

You can find out more about the Geopark and the events taking place around the area by visiting www.worc.ac/geopark.