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A bit about me

I joined The Spastic Society in 1993 (now Scope) organizing community based fundraising events where in 1996, I progressed to develop, market and organize challenge events for the charity. In 2000 I did a stint in Australia to set up challenge events in Sydney for their sister charity. When I returned I moved to VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) to set up their challenge event program before coming to The Ultimate Travel Company in 2005.

With over 17 years experience of the charity challenge market, I am as enthusiastic today as I was in my early twenties, whether it’s on the day-to-day operation side in the office, or whether I’m out in the field (and I have been very privileged to lead many of the events around the world), I always try to ensure every trip is not only a successful event for the charity, but also that it’s a life-changing experience for everyone who takes part, and that’s why I love my job!

My favourite place

More recently we’ve been organizing quite a few trips in America. My favorite is a bike ride from Yosemite National Park to San Francisco, finishing at the Golden Gate Bridge. One of the most exciting things I’ve ever done. The people we met along the way were incredible, interested in what we were doing, the charity, the money raised etc. and, of course so friendly.

My most memorable experience

Going on my first ever charity challenge event. In 1996 I rode from St. Petersburg to Moscow in 5 days on a bicycle; we had a police escort into Red Square!

My top tips

  • Good equipment is key mountain weather is very unpredictable.
  • Take a luxury item on the event with you – I often take a good book and retire early to my tent.
  • Making sure the whole team are ok and enjoying the challenge!