Originally trained as a chemist at the universities of Oxford, York, and Alberta, Adam Hart-Davis is a freelan ce writer and broadcaster - former presenter on television of Local Heroes, Tomorrow's World, What the Romans (and others) Did for Us, How London was Built, The Cosmos -a beginner's guide, and many others. He has collected various awards for both television and radio, as well as four medals and 14 honorary doctorates.

He has edited several books, and written about 30, including Stringlopedia, Science - the definitive visual guide, The Book of Time, Engineers, and The Science Book. He has written numerous newspaper and magazine articles, and a regular column in the Radio Times.

A member of the Associ ation of Pole-Lathe Turners and the British Toilet Association, Adam is a keen supporter of the charities WaterAid, Practical Action, Sustrans, and the Joliba Trust. He has various bicycles, which he rides slowly but with enthusiasm.