Annouska Evans

Why do you love getting outside in Somerset?

I was fortunate enough to be brought up spending a lot of time outdoors, so it’s been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember.

We are lucky to live in (in my opinion) one of the most beautiful parts of the country, and I love to get out and explore and appreciate it. It does wonders for my mood, and never fails to put a smile on my face.

It’s very important to me to instil the same values for my daughter. I want her to grow up with the same passion and appreciation for the outdoors as me. Therefore, it is even more vital for us to get out as much as possible. I want it to be the norm for her to get outdoors, in some capacity, every day.

Can you tell us a little more about any outdoor activities you love in particular, and how you got into them?

I love to play sports, hockey, netball and rounders mainly), and enjoy the outdoors, either walking our dog, paddle boarding and skiing in the winter (not in Somerset though, unfortunately!).

We have a large dog who enjoys lots of exercise and we really enjoy spending time as a family walking him. We love to visit Longrun Meadow, the River Tone, the Quantocks, Mendips and Wimbleball Lake.

We first tried paddle boarding on our honeymoon in Hawaii and loved it as a more relaxed way to spend time on the water. We then purchased inflatable ones when we got back, the convenience and possibilities it offers is gret. We already paddle with our dog, so can’t wait until our daughter is big enough to join in too!

I am very fortunate that my job involves a whole host of outdoor activities, so there isn’t much I haven’t had the opportunity to try.

What advice would you give to people who want to get outdoors more?

You don’t have to go far. Longrun Meadow and the River Tone are accessible from the town centre. Even spending an hour outdoors will do you good. It needn’t take up lots of your time!