Views of the countryside on our doorstep have been brought together in a book by a Kent author.

Belinda Knox has put together an illustrated guide to the North Downs Way, running from Farnham in Surrey through to Dover.

Born in Pembury Hospital and having grown up in Ide Hill, this is Belinda’s third book and came about unexpectedly after last year’s wet summer.

“The rain was so torrential in 2011 that I took more pictures than normal,” said Belinda, whose coffee table book contains more than 200 photos.

“I was interested to see what the area looked like immediately after the rain had stopped. A moment before it was horrible and then I could see this fresh beauty.”

The book also features a history of the route and has a foreword by mountaineer Stephen Venables, who grew up on the North Downs Way. Belinda will be signing copies of her book at Waterstones in St Margaret’s Street, Canterbury on Wednesday, October 10. “The South East is one of the UK’s most populated areas but on this walk you are most likely to see trees and huge expanses of countryside,” said Belinda.

“It is amazing considering how close you are to civilisation. Also walking is amazingly good for helping you to open your eyes. You see things you don’t normally see, even though they are staring you in the face. It’s fabulous.”

One of her favourite images is the one on the cover of the book, of a field near Cuxton.

She said: “It is this amazing field of golden wheat. It is a lovely rolling field. Such a lovely peaceful view with very simple colours.”

The signing costs £3 from the shop and is redeemable against buying the book on the night. Call 01227 452354.

North Downs Way by Belinda Knox is available in hardback and costs £19.99.