The Northern Ambassadors took networking to new heights yesterday with the BPMA Connections Walk in the Peak District — and what a day it was. Bathed in April sunshine, the group set off in fine spirits, proving once and for all that meaningful industry conversations are just as effective when delivered mid‑stride and occasionally slightly out of breath.

Of course, the Peak District had a little character to add to proceedings. While the valleys lulled us into a springtime daze, the summits delivered wind with real intent — the kind that repositions conversations, rearranges hairstyles and reminds you exactly why you brought that extra layer. Still, spirits remained high, helped along by outstanding company and the shared triumph of reaching the top without losing anyone to Derbyshire.

No great networking event is complete without a plot twist, and this one came in the form of a completely unplanned stop for a pint of Guinness for one or two walkers. The group had the chance to further conversations with a buffet lunch at the end point for a couple of hours before heading home. It turns out nothing brings people together quite like an outdoors event, particularly after battling gale‑force gusts and earning refreshment the hard way.

Huge credit goes to the Northern Ambassadors for pulling together such a brilliant, relaxed event, with special thanks to Dan from The Outdoors Company and John and Sarah of Wild Thang for organising a day that perfectly combined fresh air, good humour and genuinely great connections. Proof, if ever it were needed, that networking really does work better when you take it outside.