Before setting out on this trip, I worked in the arts for six years, as a publicist for theatre and dance companies like The Royal Ballet and Rambert.

The idea of exercise and sleeping outdoors used to completely baffle me, but while living in the city I began craving escapes to the countryside and somehow Chillo managed to convert me to hiking. I’ve since walked the coast of Cornwall and hiked 90 miles on my own through the Yorkshire Dales, as well as several other hair-brained adventures.

Having backpacked round South America ten years ago I’m looking forward to rediscovering it in a new light and getting acquainted with all things bicycle!