AN USK-based personal trainer who runs Monmouthshire mountains most weeks has been revealed as one of six National Trust Wales nature ambassadors to inspire more people to spend time outdoors.

Finlay Mitchell, aged 26, was encouraged as a child to play outside rather than in front of a screen and he’s carried that thought into his adult life, using his three local peaks – Sugar Loaf, Skirrid and Blorenge - to train and get his clients out of the gym.

His ‘signature’ is to complete every climb, whether he has walked or run, with a handstand at the summit!

Finlay is sharing his story as part of National Trust Wales’ campaign, fronted by rugby star Jamie Roberts and launched earlier this year, to find ambassadors with special stories connected to nature around Wales.

Finlay, who is joined on every run by his rescue dog, Ted, said: “The county of Monmouthshire is where I have lived all my life - I have travelled to mountains in Europe, Canada and even stood looking down at the impossibly built kingdom of Machu Picchu and in my opinion nothing can beat the landscape that’s in our own backyard.

“I love Sugar Loaf, it is one of my favourite places of all time. It’s so clean, so fresh which makes you feel alive.

“We don’t realise how good it is to just move. It keeps the muscles and joints mobile, blood pumping and has an amazing effect on our mental health. Life has become sedentary, we spend all day in front of a screen, we are losing the art of conversation.

“Take a friend for a walk, turn the phones off and enjoy the peacefulness nature can offer.”

Completing Sugar Loaf in a total of 29 minutes - 17 minutes up and 12 minutes down - Finlay added: “Running up mountains sounds crazy, but it really does give you an immense feeling of satisfaction. The struggle to the top, no matter how you get there, is always worth it upon seeing that view.”

Meeting Jamie Roberts at Sugar Loaf, where Finlay spent much of his childhood picnicking with his family – the ambassadors exchanged fond memories of the Welsh beauty spot.

“The Sugarloaf was a regular jaunt for us as a family with its proximity to Cardiff. I remember we once did a sunrise walk there, meeting at 1am! The views of the Skirrid and the Blorenge made it worthwhile,” said Jamie.

To find out more about National Trust Wales’ ambassadors and for inspiration on how to make the most of the great Welsh outdoors, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wales-nature-ambassadors