Dry stone walls are beautiful and practical. They last for centuries, they provide niche environments for flora and fauna, and if they do get knocked down they can simply be rebuilt. Not only that, but they are also inextricably linked with the hills and mountains and all the best parts of our beautiful countryside that a keen walker like myself loves.

So after 25 years working as a teacher, I took a big step and changed career to become a waller. My children were horrified - what about those cold wet winter days - but I have loved it and never regretted making the leap.

I trained through the Dry Stone Walling Association certification scheme under some of the country's top wallers in the Peak District, before establishing my own business on the eastern side of the Cotswold limestone area. I cover Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire and eastern Oxfordshire, but am open to travelling further for particular projects.

• Dry Stone Walling Association Advanced certified
• Fully insured