Waterton

Squire Waterton of Walton Hall was an eccentric Englishman and gentleman who made many visits to South America and wrote about his travels.

His travel books are "amongst the oddest I know" Sir David Attenborough tells us, written in an odd, almost biblical style. But nevertheless, they are accounts of natural history 200 years ago.

Attenborough argues that Waterton shouldn't be just remembered for his writing. He should be credited with establishing the first nature reserve in this country.

Appalled by the ravages of the industrial revolution's impact on the landscape, he built a wall around his estate to protect the wildlife - and free of charge allowed people to visit, which they did in their masses.

Written and presented by David Attenborough

Producer: Julian Hector

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in June 2011.