A FORMER biology teacher from Anglesey who continued his love for the subject by becoming an author has released his latest title.

Gareth Rowlands of Trearddur Bay retired from teaching 20 years ago and ever since he has been writing a number of books detailing the island’s finest assets.

His latest release - Anglesey: Flowering plants and their habitats - features over 100 coloured pictures, as well as information about where to find the listed flora and their medical uses.

Gareth, who was head of Biology at Ysgol Syr Thomas Jones in Amlwch, says it was his passion for gardening that held the key to producing his detailed book.

“I have always been interested in plants and so that’s where the idea came from really,” he said.

“In 1982, R.H. Roberts produced an excellent book listing the flowering plants and ferns of Anglesey and where they are found. However, it contains no illustrations.

“My book is not intended to serve as a comprehensive local flora list but I do hope it will stimulate interest in our beautiful island.

“I also hope it highlights the importance of conservation for future generations.”

Gareth, who has written a number of local history books and A-level Biology books in the past, says he “really enjoyed” learning more about Anglesey whilst researching.