30 May 2025

At the end of May 2025, all the entries for Britain’s Favourite Path will be in and it will be over to our judges to select 8 winners from across Britain to go forward to the public vote. But who are the judges that will be making those tough decisions? Let us introduce you to our panel of path pro’s.

 

Jeff Brazier

Broadcaster and presenter

Jeff regularly appears on flagship programmes like BBC’s The One Show and ITV’s This Morning, and you might have spotted him with his son on Celebrity Race Across the World or on BBC Two’s Pilgrimage.

Alongside his TV work, Jeff is a mental health advocate and grief counsellor. In 2022, he launched PRJCT WLKS, a series of Walk and Talk sessions in Essex. These have since grown into a vibrant community, attracting up to 100 participants each time.

“It’s a privilege to be on the judging panel to find Britain's Favourite Path. Walking means a lot to me physically, mentally and emotionally... so many of the paths nominated will serve as great inspiration for those who find freedom in great outdoor spaces.”

 

Paul Howland

Don’t Lose Your Way researcher 

Across England and Wales, there’s thousands of miles of lost paths that don’t appear on official maps. Often, these paths have been used for decades – centuries, even – and it’s up to all of us to make sure they’re protected for the future. Our Don’t Lose Your Way project has found these lost paths, and now volunteers like Paul are doing the research required, and gathering the evidence needed, to get them back on the map. It’s detailed, painstaking work that takes dedication and commitment – but saving a lost path is a wonderful legacy for the future.  

“What we’re doing is recovering old paths that have often been in place for centuries," says Paul. “Once a route is determined back on the map it'll be there forever, for my children and grandchildren and for future generations, and that makes it all worthwhile."

 

Chitra Ramachandran

Area footpath secretary  

As an area footpath secretary for Greater Manchester and High Peak Ramblers, Chitra liaises with volunteer footpath officers and local authorities to tackle path problems and improve the rights of way network. Over the years, the Ramblers has fought for public’s right to access the outdoors and to protect the paths that help us explore it – but our work doesn’t stop there. Volunteers like Chitra makes sure paths stay clear and accessible, so everyone can put their rights into action and enjoy fantastic walks.

“[It’s very rewarding because] I’m making contribution to my community … it helps protect out brilliant path network, which support people to get out walking. For any would-be Ramblers, it’s worth it – jump in!”

 

Dipam Sharma

Out There Award graduate  

Dipam took part in the Out There Award and since graduating from the scheme, he’s become a big advocate for getting outdoors. The Out There Award is a free two-day course for 18- to 26-year-olds that equips them with the skills and confidence to walk in nature. Dipam moved from India to Scotland in 2021 and alongside being a Doctoral Scholar at Glasgow Caledonian University, he helps inspire people to embrace everything the outdoors has to offer.

“The best thing about the Out There Award is you meet like-minded people. It’s like a small community and you become part of that community.”

 

Debbie North

Accessibility campaigner 

Debbie is passionate about creating a countryside for all. Since becoming a wheelchair user, she has campaigned tirelessly to break down barriers for everyone through her charity Access the Dales. Recently, as a testament to her passion, knowledge and drive, she was appointed by the government as a Disability and Access Ambassador for the countryside.  

“Most disabled people accept that not all areas of the countryside can be made fully accessible. I have spoken to many people with disabilities and not one wants a National Park that has tarmacked all its paths and bridleways. However, disabled people do have a reasonable expectation that man-made barriers in the countryside, such as stiles and kissing gates, are replaced, where possible, with easy-opening gates.”

 

Lucy Sutton & Suzanne Goldsmith

Cotswold Outdoor

And to round off our judging panel, we're delighted to be joined by Lucy Sutton, Marketing Director, and Suzanne Goldsmith, Lead Creative Designer, from Cotswold Outdoor. With over 50 years of experience in helping provide people with all the kit they need to enjoy the outdoors, Cotswold Outdoor know first-hand the adventures that paths can take us on. And as Britain's Favourite Path's main sponsor, they're helping us share those adventures far and wide.

Looking to refresh your walking wardrobe? Don't forget that Ramblers members get 15% off at Cotswold Outdoor.