I’m a freelance writer and, amongst other things, I write the monthly walks for Devon Life magazine. Over the course of a year I clock up a few miles and during 2023 I have pledged to walk 1000 miles to raise funds for DWT. (This is purely self-regulated – I’m not signed up for any scheme.)

Although walking an average of three miles a day doesn’t sound too challenging, it has to be done as a regular commitment, regardless of weather or daylight. During the winter I've discovered the 'pleasure' of walking in the dark with a headtorch. I live up a one-in-four hill and at night the gradient ahead cannot be seen, which makes the climb surprisingly easier. Interesting psychology!

As well as walking, wildlife and conservation are my ‘raisons d'être’, and many of the features I write cover aspects of this: the state of Britain's dormice, the reintroduction of pine martens and various wilding projects, to name but a few. I often liaise with DWT for these features.

This charity works tirelessly to help protect the environment on which all life depends. Thank you for helping me to support them.