My time with the UK Armed Forces ended this summer. It has been an incredible opportunity to test and develop myself, firstly by passing the Commando course. Then through regular training, on overseas exercises in Belize and the US, as well as operational deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Effective teamwork, leadership at all levels, witnessing the coaching and mentoring to inspire the best performance from each soldier are experiences which will always stay with me.

I knew I would miss the camaraderie of the Army so I was determined to create a group that would bridge that gap. For me, that’s a project that brings together a new team for new challenges. We’ve christened ourselves Los Leones – the lions. Los Leones is made up of armed forces veterans but also serving military and civilians.

Our focus is on preparation and participation in endurance events, to raise funds for military charities.

Looking ahead, I’ll be finding further inspiring projects. That means tough challenges that require courage, strength and determination. They may be team events, or training support for individuals who raise money for a military charity.