AN ADVENTURER is set to visit Helensburgh to recount tales of explorer Harry St John Philby's Arabian exploration.

Mark Evans will speak at Victoria Halls on Sinclair Street as part of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society's (RSGS) Inspiring People talks programme.

The former executive director of Outward Bound Oman, who has lived in the Middle East for 25 years, will discuss Mr Philby's 1917 journey across Arabia and his own Heart of Arabia expedition with Philby’s Saudi Arabian granddaughter, where they retraced Mr Philby’s footsteps from east to west across Arabia, on foot, by camel and by 4x4.

The talk is open to all and will begin at 7.30pm on September 26.

Tickets are free for RSGS members, students, and under-18s.

They can be booked online in advance at rsgs.org/events, and will also be available at the door.

Mr Evans said: "As The Times editorial said at the end of our expedition, 'there is much more to the Middle East than blood, sweat and oil'.

"I look forward to sharing the story of an incredible man, challenging some stereotypes and showcasing the real Arabia, the Arabia that lies behind the headlines, and that has been my home for the past 25 years."

Mr Evans was awarded the Medal of Honour by His Majesty The Sultan of Oman for his work using outdoor learning to develop the youth of Oman.

Mike Robinson, chief executive of RSGS, said: "We are delighted to welcome back Mark as one of our first speakers for the Inspiring People talks programme this year.

"In his talk he will uncover the diverse landscape and cultures that make up Saudi Arabia, and inspire audiences with stories from his 1,300km journey through desert plains, lava fields and ancient pilgrim trails.

"RSGS will be hosting 90 talks across Scotland for our talks programme until April, so be sure to keep an eye out for our fantastic line-up of speakers."