One of Britain’s foremost anthropologists has spoken about his admiration for Charles Darwin ahead of the 200th anniversary of his birth.  Desmond Morris has written about anthropology and zoology in his 60-year career.

He paid tribute to Darwin as a man whose theories changed the way we look at the world.

“Thanks to him, we see ourselves as part of nature instead of separate to it and superior to it,” he said. “If it weren’t for him, we would not be concerned about the way we have, in our arrogant past, ravaged the small planet on which we live.”

He said Shrewsbury-born Darwin’s theories and dedication to his work had inspired him to start his own scientific career.

“As a lifelong naturalist myself he is not only a personal hero but the root from which all my own professional studies stemmed, which is why I feel it so important to celebrate the anniversary of his birth.

“He was, and remains, one of our greatest ever thinkers – a man whose discovery changed the way we see the world.”

Darwin was born in Shrewsbury on February 12, 1809, and lived in the town until he was 27. To celebrate the date a full programme of events has been planned in the town, with two planned for February 12.

Darwin’s Birthday Bash has been organised for anyone of school age in Shropshire who shares Darwin’s birthday. Anyone who meets the criteria can contact maggie.love@shrewsbury.gov.uk for an invitation to the event.

And a Darwin Day toast and walk has been arranged for the same day where visitors will drink a toast to Darwin before heading out on a guided walk. For more details call (01743) 281200.