

In the last six hours, more than nine out of every 10 British people will have talked about the weather, but why, as a Nation, are we so obsessed with the weather? Is it our culture or the changing climate that makes this the topic of choice?
Clare Nasir
Clare is a meteorologist, broadcaster and author. She has been Channel 5’s Weather Anchor since 2017, presenter for The Met Office and is co-author of best-selling book ‘What Does Rain Smell Like’.
Dr Rosie Oakes
Dr. Rosie Oakes is a Senior Scientist in the International Climate Services team at the Met Office. Rosie has a background in earth, ocean, and climate sciences. At the Met Office Rosie works with people from around the world to provide clear, accessible climate information which can be used to help inform decisions. Rosie’s current work includes an agriculture project in north east China and a hydropower project in Nepal. Regardless of the location, Rosie enjoys learning from people about the challenges they face and working out what climate information they need to help them prepare for the future. Rosie is passionate about communicating climate change science and making science accessible and open to all.
Simon King
Simon is a meteorologist and lead BBC Weather presenter who works mostly for radio 5live but also across BBC News and social media. Every day he is passionately telling us not only the weather forecast but also generally about other weather and climate stories, breaking down the science in an easy to understand way. He is co-author of the book ‘What Does Rain Smell Like?’ which sets out to answer some fascinating questions about our weather. Also co-host of the BBC podcast ‘Under the Weather’. Simon has an in-depth knowledge of the weather and climate having studied meteorology to post-graduate level at the University of Reading and working for the Met Office as senior forecaster for the Armed Forces before joining the BBC.
Sophie Bridger (host)
Sophie Bridger is the Scotland Country Manager for Eden Project Communities, and leads our communities work including the Big Lunch in Scotland. She’s passionate about creating inclusive communities, and helping people connect to create social change. Sophie loves being outside, whether that’s hillwalking or being by the sea, and lives in Edinburgh.
We’re giving away three copies of Claire and Simon’s book What Does Rain Smell Like? to three lucky winners in our Great Book Giveaway! By registering and attending this session, you’ll be automatically entered into the prize draw!