I was inspired at an early age by the Everest exploits of Bonington, Scott, Haston et al and this set me on the path to become a mountaineer.
After various exploits during my time at University, I was able to access more in the way of formal training whilst in the Army and this led first to trips to Scotland in the Winter, then to the Alps and ultimately to an expedition to climb Archangel Ridge on Mount Foraker in Alaska.
My final job in the Army was as the Manager of an Adventure Training Centre in the Bavarian Alps where, over the course of three winters, I discovered Ski Touring in addition to mountaineering and climbing.
On leaving University I qualified as a teacher of Mathematics and Outdoor Activities at Bangor University in North Wales where I was also able to start working through the various Mountain Training schemes.
I was fortunate in being able to find my dream job teaching primarily Mathematics but also Outdoor Pursuits at a boarding school in the Scottish Highlands, a job I am still very actively enjoying.
In recent years I have also started working as a freelance Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor and Winter Mountain Leader during the school holidays and weekends and really enjoy this additional opportunity to pass on my love of Scottish mountains and crags. In March 2023 I also completed my Winter Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor training course. This qualification has long been an ambition of mine but Covid put plans on hold for a while.