Luke Fursdon

How I came to be working at The Dartmoor Centres

I've always had a love for the outdoors - inspired by growing up on a Dartmoor hill farm which I now run alongside working at The Dartmoor Centres. I always joined in with the activity clubs at secondary school and then spent three years at Duchy College studying outdoor pursuits before travelling the world, then returning to Dartmoor.

My favourite sport is kayaking although over the years I've also enjoyed cycling, archery, clay-pigeon shooting, sailing, caving, climbing and swimming, alongside walking my dog and visiting local country pubs for a good hearty meal.

My favourite thing about Dartmoor

My favourite place on Dartmoor is certainly my home, a small traditional hill farm close to the picturesque river Dart valley where I go white-water kayaking on the occasional day off from the farm work. I love to take part in various community events on Dartmoor too, including being a member of the local Christmas pantomime for over 20 years and joining in with competitions at the local fairs and fêtes.

What makes me happy

I've always loved Dartmoor's steep sided valleys and rivers with amazing views, especially on hot sunny days or clear spring mornings, when the mist rises from the bottom of the valley. There’s nothing better than getting some fresh air and enjoying the countryside and Dartmoor certainly doesn't disappoint.
Working with young people at The Dartmoor Centres and sharing this wonderful landscape with them is fantastic, especially whilst also being able to educate them on the way of life here, including farming – my other passion, on Dartmoor.