My first 'mountain' hike as a child was probably across the Durham Dales – this is where it all started. A cold, moorland church walk to the beautiful valley of High Cup Nick. I will never forget the view of the great U shaped valley splintered by shafts of light. Nor the return journey as clouds gathered in the afternoon gloom and snow obscured the tracks as we ploughed on. It is a vivid memory, full of challenge and reward and helped me form an enduring love of adventure. As I grew up, I was fortunate enough to be able to add to this experience with more journeys, travelling on foot and by bike, canoe and kayak through some fantastic mountain scenery in the UK, Europe and South America. With a combination of qualifications in climbing, canoe sport, caving and winter mountain leadership, I have been a teacher of Outdoor Education for over 15 years. I am now based in the Brecon Beacons in South Wales with wife Jenny and our two boys.
Recent journeys, taken as I completed my International Mountain Leader Award, culminated in a discovery and enjoyment of snowshoeing trails, with all they offer: opportunities to interact in the mountain environment, to observe its beauties, to spot animal signs and tracks, to face new challenges and earn their rewards. Recent work in Europe has taken me along the Walker's Haute route (Chamonix to Zermatt) and the Tour Du Mont Blanc.