Over the pafenna-johnst near 40 years I have worked in Outdoor Pursuits as an instructor at various Centres and as an Expedition Leader for Raleigh International and World Challenge amongst other jobs, mainly for charities but always on the “Personal Development” side of things.

With qualifications as a Mountain Leader and Level 4 Open Canoe Coach, as well as gaining qualifications in Aromatherapy and Fashion Design, I like to keep learning. I have been a relief worker for organisations such as Mencap for over 10 years, have written for the Outdoor Press as a freelance for about 26 years, originally writing for the much missed “Survival Weaponry and Techniques”!

I have published books on DIY clothing and equipment, walking in West Wales and cycling in Pembrokeshire and contributed to many outdoor “compilation” books as well as writing Bushcraft and Survival columns for magazines.
My first career was in IT but I binned that after 12 months as I realised that it is not for me! Luckily the silly amount of money I was able to earn in that period enabled me to start my Outdoor Career and live out of a rucksack for a year while learning my new trade. My Design qualifications saw me gaining employment designing clothing for Craghoppers and Snowdon Clothing for a while but I prefered teaching skills so that is what I went back to.
Currently I work at a Care Farm where there are Domicilary, Respite, and Day Care services and the Participants (who may have a range of Learning and Physical issues) can take part in farming activities, Arts and Crafts, Drama and other activities as well as Bushcraft and Leathercraft and activities which I am leading.
As a self confessed “Gear Freak” I enjoy reviewing clothing and equipment for a well known magazine as well as writing a Bushcraft Column for the same magazine. Access to review samples allows me to review the odd bit of kit for BcUK too….
My compulsion to make things has lead to my attending various Craft Fairs to sell my Leatherwork and carved woodwork.
I have a deep belief in the therapeutic qualities of time spent close to nature, enjoy learning and teaching “Bushcraft” techniques and have been married to a very patient wife for more years that is reasonable to expect from her (we have been together since I was eighteen!) but have avoided becoming a parent, though I got my fill of young people by being a Scout Leader for 15 years…