When did you first get into climbing?

After leaving Appleby School, I trained to be a riding instructor while pulling pints in the local pub in the evening. In 1981 one of the locals took me climbing. I was given a Whillans harness, a Joe Brown helmet and wore pink plimsolls instead of climbing shoes. On my first visit to Chamonix in 1985, I climbed Mont Blanc by the Brenva Spur.

When did you know that this was going to be your career?

In 1990 I went to Bangor University to do a Teacher Training course. I was barely a page ahead of the kids in some subjects and soon realised I could never be a school teacher. I applied to the BMG (British Mountain Guides) and was accepted on their training course.

What is involved in becoming an IFMGA Guide?

You have to have a lot of mountaineering experience before applying. Then, demonstrate a high standard on rock, experience of Alpine ‘grandes courses’, competence in skiing and the ability to look after yourself in the Scottish winter! In 1991 I passed my first rock climbing assessment and that winter I worked at Glenmore Lodge. Taking me out in all conditions, this also gave me the opportunity to learn to ski.

How did you first get involved with KE and what is your role now?

In 1996 I worked for KE as a guide on three treks in Nepal. At the end of that year I moved permanently to the Alps and KE Director Glenn Rowley asked me to develop a range of Alpine climbs and glacier treks. My role includes making hut and hotel reservations, organising transport, selecting guides and developing new high mountain adventures.

After 20 years of guiding, what aspect of the job do you enjoy the most?

Being in the mountains for me is not a solitary experience – it is so much about the people you share these adventures with. It would be impossible to mention all of the wonderful people I have spent time with over the years, be it on peaks in the Alps or Himalayas, hanging off a sheer rock face, shivering all night on an unplanned bivouac, clinging to thin ice, or making first tracks in fresh powder snow. I thank you all for a great shared experience.

Something you always pack in your suitcase when you travel?

Rock shoes and harness.

Top Tips if you're planning to stay in a mountain hut?

Pack of cards and a fat wallet!

What is the best thing about your job?

Being in the mountains with new and old friends.

What is the strangset thing you have ever eaten?

Fried locust - disgusting!

What is your favourite quote?

Light plus light equals heavy! And, Never has so much been owed to so few by so many.

What was the last picture which you took on your phone?

Cat in a tree with Telendous Island in the background, Kalymnos, Greece.