Celebrity adventurer and TV presenter Ben Fogle was at Jarrold's, in Norwich, last night, talking about his life and career and signing copies of his new book, The Accidental Adventurer.

Around 200 people attended to hear Mr Fogle speak about going from a shy boy, who holidayed on the Norfolk Broads every year, to becoming the poster boy for intrepid exploration in the 21st century, tackling Antarctica, Papua New Guinea and the Atlantic in a rowing boat.

Mr Fogle, who spent time as a young adult socialising in Norwich, with friends who attended the UEA, said: 'I actually did my first ever book signing here, in 2002, and I've been coming to Norwich on and off for many years as well.

'I just think it has a very friendly atmosphere, it is a lovely part of the world as well.

'My wife and I often head up to the north Norfolk coastline, Holkham and Brancaster and places like that, and we have lots of friends in the area. For someone who does like the outdoors, it is perfect.'

Husband and wife Kelly and Matthew Philpot, both 31, from Hillside Avenue, in Thorpe St Andrew, enjoyed meeting Mr Fogle.

'It is great to be able to meet someone who is an inspiration, in somewhere like Jarrold's,' said Mr Philpot. 'We've seen other interesting people here as well; it's just nice to hear intelligent people talk for an evening.'

Mrs Philpot said: 'We are into horse riding, rowing and going on the broads, so I guess that is the reason we identify with him.'

After the book signing, Mr Fogle said: 'It was a very nice audience as there always is here; there were lots of good questions – a good mix from all the stuff that I've done over the years.' photos: joe wilkes