Exclusive Interview with Julia Bradbury
Cumbrians' Generosity And Spirit Impressed Julia Bradbury Interview by Ross Brewster
SHE'S been called "the walking man's crumpet," probably by a tabloid newspaper writer in need of a good headline. There's no doubt that Julia Bradbury lives life to the full, and with fun. But there's a serious side to the TV presenter when it comes to supporting Cumbrians who, this time last year, were devastated by unprecedented floods.
Julia joined Prince Charles in switching on Keswick's festive lights as the town fought to recover from the floods ordeal. She saw the impact of the floods on towns in Cumbria. And this year she has been a regular and valued supporter of the battle to win back business to the area.
Keswick Guide reporter Ross Brewster managed to grab a quick question and answer session with Wainwright Walker and Countryfile presenter Julia during a break in her hectic filming work during which she spoke about her special relationship with Keswick and Cumbria which has become a lot more than just a backcloth for some spectacular mountain walks following in the footsteps of legendary guide book author A.W.
Ross Brewster: Julia, it's almost a year to the day since the floods and your visit to Keswick to support the local community, What are your memories of what you saw here and the people you met?
Julia Bradbury: I got a phone call asking if I would come to Keswick to turn on the lights and declare Cumbria open for business. I met farmers, little old ladies and families, and all of them had smiles on their faces and were chipper and helping out. The lights went on and the crowd cheered-the floods momentarily forgotten. I saw community action in Cumbria; unity, kinship and co-operation and a sense of doing."
RB: In one interview you described switching on Keswick's Christmas lights with Prince Charles as your proudest moment.
JB: I was honoured to be asked. They actually asked me first to switch on the lights and then asked me if I would mind sharing the duty with HRH. I said, ‘not at all'."
RB: You seem to have adopted Keswick and the Lake District as a special cause in this past year. What makes the area so special for you?
JB: The people-generous of spirit and heart. I recently popped in a taxi from Cockermouth to Keswick and the driver refused my fare saying it was a pleasure to carry me in his vehicle...you don't get that in Central London!
RB: You are president of the Ramblers' Association in its 75th year. I see you are quoted as "putting the passion into walking." Are you aware just how many people have been inspired by your Wainwright Walks to head for the hills themselves?
JB: I hear from people every single day who have been inspired to embark on their own peregrinations. It's a great feeling.
RB: You have helped spread the Wainwright Word about enjoying the fells and treating them with respect. He must have been a big influence, but who in general has been the biggest influence on your career? JB: My family who have always encouraged a strong work ethic and passion for life. Put energy in and you get energy back.
RB: Family plays an important role in your life. As one of the busiest people on TV I imagein Team Bradbury plays a key role in planning your diary.
JB: They are with me every step of the way.
RB: You dined in a mine during Keswick Mountain Festival. How strange and fascinating an experience was that?
JB: Incredible. Mark Weir is a good friend and powerful positive person. The food was delectable, served on slate plates (of course) which is no mean feat up a mountain in a mine.
RB: Have you any burning ambition not yet fulfilled and what can your fans in Cumbria expect to see you in next?
JB: Books, a website, a chat show, an adventure series; loads I want to do! See you on a fell soon or watch out for The Julia Bradburys, a walking group formed this year.
