Phillipa Cherryson

Meet Phillipa Cherryson – Outdoor enthusiast, horse and dog lover, writer and cake fan.

What drives you to spend time outside?

Heading into the hills is like hitting the reset button for me. The sights, smells and sounds of our countryside inspire and energise me.

Where are your favourite places to go?

The Brecon Beacons National Park. I love a good ridge walk, great views and waterfalls. Sugar Loaf has a special place in my heart and Blaen y Glyn is my dream local walk.

What is your favourite thing to do outdoors?

Walking (with riding my horse a close second).

Who inspires you and how?

So many! Kate Adie who inspired me as a teenager, reporting on war zones and trailblazing for women at the time. Rosie Swale Pope for showing there is life after bereavement. McNuff and Framps for setting up Adventure Queens which has changed mine and the lives of many other women. My mum and my dearly departed dad who always encouraged me to reach for the top. Mountain rescue – my partner David is a member and I am humbled by their dedication.

What are your focuses this year to help people get outside more often?

My volunteering with the not-for-profit community Adventure Queens. I’m organising even more events this year to get women together exploring the outdoors, whether it’s on foot, in a tent or on water.

What are your 3 biggest life achievements?

As a journalist I lead an investigation which ended in the posthumous pardon of an innocent man who was hanged for a crime he didn’t commit – I was with his widow in court to see his name cleared. Beating my fear of heights and learning to climb (I bought my first harness and rock shoes at the age of 49). Thru-hiking the 99- mile Beacons Way, I dreamed of doing it for more than 10 years and it taught me to believe in my own ability in the outdoors.

3 words you live by…

Live for today.

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

Prosecco and my constantly growing buff collection!