A FARMER from the Wiveliscombe area has branched out to write his first book.

Wesley Wyatt's God Speed the Plough is being launched two days after his 91st birthday.

The book covers the ups and down of Mr Wyatt incredible career in farming in the area which has lasted for more than 70 years.

It spans and reflects on the dramatic changes in agricultural policy and rural life over that period.

Taking over the family farm at the age of 18, he transformed it from an old-fashioned mix of corn and beef into one of the most intensive and successful farm businesses in Somerset.

Along the way, he survived all manner of trials and tribulations before easing back and turning to conservation in his later years.

He had a strict Methodist upbringing that helped develop a strong social conscience and an upright but outgoing personality.

That served to lead him into many other avenues, from golf, through local politics to his beloved Old Tauntonians, encountering all manner of unlikely characters along the way.

It all makes for a life story as rich as it is compelling, with his book beautifully illustrated with more than 40 photographs.

Wesley Wyatt’s endeavours may indeed have been unpredictable, but that just makes them all the more fascinating.

The launch of God Speed the Plough is at Wiveliscombe Rugby Club on Tuesday, April 18, from 11am to 1pm.

The book, published by Charlcombe Books, will be available for purchase at £12 on the day