THE mapping of Scotland’s islands is set to be the focus of the next Inspiring People talk in Helensburgh next week.

Professor Charles Withers, the Geographer Royal for Scotland, will take the audience on a journey from late 16th century to the 21st century at the talk organised by the Royal Scottish Geographical Society.

He is set to speak at the Victoria Halls on Sinclair Street at 7.30pm on Thursday, March 1.

Charles will discuss the first infrequent cartographic appearances of Scotland’s islands, distorted and incomplete, to the now commonplace modern mapping of these areas.

The talk will also underline why mapping Scotland’s islands has been far from straightforward.

Mike Robinson, RSGS chief executive, told the Advertiser: “The islands of Scotland hold an important place in many people’s hearts, and are often viewed by visitors as special locations for a trip away.

“But when travelling there, we often take for granted the maps that guide us.

“It will be fascinating to learn from Charles about the complex and intriguing history which led to the cartographic wonders we have at our disposal today.”

Professor Charles Withers is Ogilvie Chair of Geography at the University of Edinburgh and Geographer Royal for Scotland.

He has released a book, along with colleagues Chris Fleet and Margaret Wilkes, entitled Scotland: Mapping the Islands.

The talk will include images from the book, including some beautiful and historically significant maps from the collection of the National Library of Scotland.

The Inspiring People talks are open to all members of the public.

Tickets are free for students, under 18s and RSGS members, £8 for Tiso Outdoor Experience cardholders and £10 for visitors.

Tickets are available on the door or online in advance from www.rsgs.org.

The last Inspiring People Talk of the season, by John Geiger on The Third Man Factor, will be held on Thursday, March 29.