Many people use hiking footwear as part of their hobby, but for some people it is a way of life - such as Beverley Penney, former director of Ramblers Cymru, who was recently awarded an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Ms Penney worked for Ramblers Cymru between 1982 and 2009, and played a vital part in ensuring the people of Wales could get out and enjoy their outdoor equipment as often as possible.

Since 1982, new walking festivals have launched in Wales, the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 has been passed and the All Wales coast path has nearly been completed and is scheduled to open in 2012.

"I have worked with Beverley over the years in many different capacities and she engaged enthusiastically with a wide range of partners to ensure that the Ramblers message was heard far and wide," said Denis McAteer, new chairman of Ramblers Cymru.

The Ramblers recently invited people to put on their outdoor equipment and enjoy the longer summer evenings with a series of walks between June and September.