Secret Life of a Rambler
Paddy Tipping - Area President
My Sheffield relatives were part of the Kinder access campaign and I’ve walked regularly since I was a boy. Halifax is a great base for walking in the Pennines and I still go there but I now normally walk in the Peak National Park. Given time pressures you can find me on local paths on a Sunday afternoon. I was at Ploughman’s Wood last weekend.
National Parks and the Right to Roam are unsung achievements of previous Labour Governments. I’m proud to have worked successfully with the Ramblers on both campaigns. I’m still active in walking campaigns – walking for health and making the countryside more welcoming to the black and Asian communities. As part of my work as Police and Crime Commissioner I walk the beat regularly with Police Officers. They all complain that I walk too quickly!
Photo: Paddy (left) with Louise Clarke & Kevin Greaves
Why did you join Ramblers? To enjoy access to the countryside
How long have you been a member? For more years than I can remember!
Where is your favourite walking destination? The Three Peaks in Yorkshire
If you could walk anywhere in the world, where would you choose? Alaska
What is your most memorable walk? Over the top of Pen-y-ghent with the clouds underneath me.
What is your most treasured piece of walking kit? My boots
Have you ever got lost on a walk? No
Who would be your ideal walking companion(s)? The long walk to freedom with Nelson Mandela
How do you relax? Walking or running
What is your favourite meal? Everything (I eat and enjoy everything)
What is your guiltiest pleasure? Too much red wine
What music would you like played at your funeral? Jerusalem
Sum up your personality in three words. Works too hard
Written by James Mcgill, March 2016