Explorer, Sir Ranulph Fiennes brought Hampshire County Council's Walking and Local Food Festival to a fascinating close over the weekend.

Sharing his tales of hardship, determination and triumph, the explorer gave accounts of his 1992 trans-Antarctica expedition with Dr Mike Stroud, and his trans-global expedition in the late 'Seventies, which spanned several years.

He also offered the audience an insight on his formative years at school and in the army.

The presentation, with took place at The Point in Eastleigh, was the final evening event in a programme of walks and events which began on September 28th.

Organised by the county council in partnership with the district councils and Hampshire Fare, the Hampshire Walking and Local Food Festival has seen almost 700 people take part in 36 walks across the county.

The walks visited some of the most beautiful Hampshire villages and countryside, allowing walkers to stop off to taste of some of the county's finest local produce along the way.

For each of his books sold at the event, Sir Ranulph made a donation to Prince's Mead School, at Kings Worthy, near Winchester. Prior to his presentation, he met the new headmistress of the school, Penelope Kirk, who expressed her thanks on behalf of the school.

The county council's executive member for economic development, Michael Woodhall, said: "Sir Ranulph's account of his adventures provided an enjoyable and suitable end to what has been a very successful and well-received festival."