Since I was a small child I've been fascinated with nature. Given the option, I'd rather be stuck in a swamp than stuck indoors.

I graduated from University with honours in truancy for many weeks spent birdwatching instead of studying. But the skills I learnt and the friendships I formed shaped my interest in wildlife and even to this day, I question what aspects of my education have been the most important part of life. Whatever the answer, I decided to give up a career in scientific (environmental) consultancy to set up Wildiaries because whilst we can teach facts by rote, science is no substitute for the life-changing and personality-forming influences that nature has on us all.

I see too many youngsters these days that lack the motivation to get outdoors and wonder what effect that will have on them in later life? I've never been bored, unhappy or unchallenged. I learn something new every day and meet amazing people that inspire me to do more. I hope my children will grow up to be equally inspired and that Wildiaries creates - at least for some people - a way to renew their interest in wildlife and the outdoors.