At school I wanted to be outside and running around more than being in the classroom. My PE teacher ran a kayaking club which I got involved with and I found I was pretty good and really enjoyed it.
On leaving school I wanted to pursue a career where I could use my outdoor skills. I built up my qualifications and experience and have been working in the industry ever since. Starting when I was 17 years old and now in my mid 40's, that's way over 25 years and I can happily say it feels like I have never done a true days work.
The outdoor industry can take you off to some very special places so its hard to pin point the ‘greatest’. I’ve worked as an instructor and led expeditions across the world from Europe, North America, South America, and Africa. But India has to be the greatest and most crazy and inspiring place I have visited.
I had the pleasure of canoeing for a month down the Ganges, India's holy river. Every day held something new to explore and see. After the month we paddled in to Varanasi at sunrise, the holiest city in India. The trip was truly humbling with so many life changing experiences and will stay with me forever.
Dry bags and stuff sacks - its possibly bordering on obsession.
Life can be uncomfortable enough sometimes when working outdoors. By organising my kit in to different coloured bags I know where everything is, should I need it. I also know it will be dry at the end of the day, regardless of the weather. I try to make life as easy as possible for myself.
Search our knowledgebase. Helping you be prepared for your DofE expedition or Challenge Event.
Camping doesn't have to be an ordeal. It can be an incredible experience that gives you the chance to strip back to basics, appreciate the outdoors by getting closer to nature and get a healthy dose of fresh air. The trick is to know how to make it comfortable! Here are a handful of our favourite ways to make camping comfortable ready for your next expedition...
The camping element to the DofE journey attracts a great deal of discussion, often some nerves, and always involves significant planning. It can mean the difference between 'surviving or thriving' when it comes to your camping experience. Keeping your camp admin tight and having plan A and B in your back pocket places you in a strong position to be able to react quickly when circumstances change. Pre-emptive thoughts and planning are never wasted and researching during the lead up to your DofE expedition is a great way to enhance your experience. Check out this blog to get some tips on how to approach your camp admin ahead of your expedition.