One of the world’s most respected experts on long-distance walking and backpacking is to become the BMC’s first hill walking ambassador.

A renowned writer, photographer and gear expert, Chris Townsend has chalked up more than 15,000 miles in the wild places of North America, Scandinavia and Scotland through a dozen huge solo walks.

Between his adventures he has authored 15 books including the Backpacker’s Handbook, now in its fourth edition, and contributed to The Great Outdoors Magazine as equipment editor for more than 20 years.

Chris also recently starred in ‘The Cairngorms in Winter’, a stunningly-shot film by Terry Abraham (Chris is interviewed about the experience of filming The Cairngorms in Winter here.)

The BMC ambassador scheme aims to provide role models that will inspire and engage new hill walkers, climbers and mountaineers. Chris is the first hill walker to become an ambassador.

Chris said: "Having been a member and supporter of the BMC for over 30 years I am honoured to be the BMC's first hill walking ambassador.

"In this role I hope to promote hill walking and inspire and inform hill walkers and show them why the BMC is important. The BMC's work on access and conservation is essential for the future of hill walking and should be supported by all hill walkers."

Chris was the first person to walk the 1,600-mile length of the Canadian Rockies, and has completed the 2,600-mile Pacific Crest Trail and the 3,100-mile Continental Divide Trail.  He has also climbed all of the 517 Scottish (3000'+) Munros and Tops in the first ever continuous walk (1700 miles and 575,000 feet of ascent). This summer he completed a two-month walk along the 1,200km length of the Scottish watershed.

Carey Davies, BMC Hill Walking Development Officer, said: “We are thrilled to have Chris as our new hill walking ambassador. His walks and his accompanying books and articles have been a great source of guidance to many getting into the outdoors.

"Chris started out his walking life doing things many 'ordinary' folk have done - spending weekends in the Lake District and walking the Pennine Way. He shows it is within the ability of all us to get out there and experience the life-changing power of mountains and wild places."

WATCH our hill walking skills video series with Chris Townsend on BMC TV

Go to Chris Townsend's blog.

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WATCH: What does the BMC do for hill walkers?

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