I’ve written before about my involvement with the Department for International Development’s expedition programme. Over three years they have funded many young people to undertake projects in a range of developing countries. This week I spent 4 days in Leeds and Manchester interviewing potential candidates and, as usual, I had a great time.

I don’t often spend 4 days in a row stuck in conference rooms but the stimulating discussion and chance to meet such inspiring young people more than makes up for it. I even got the chance to stay in a rather nice hotel, which makes a very pleasant change from festering climbing huts and tents!