I’ve never yet met a writer who is genuinely upbeat and brimming with confidence all the time, and, when you’re flagging, having some fabulous writing friends to turn to makes a whole world of difference. Obviously regular friends are great too, but they may not be able to empathise and support you professionally in the same way as your writing friends will.

The wonderful writing people I turn to for advice and support have come from a number of sources – some were tutors or fellow students from the MA in nature & travel writing I did a few years back, some I met through taking part in writing events, some are local authors and writers, and some I met through social media.

As well as my writing network, I have built up a network of generous naturalists and ecologists — many of whom I met when interviewing them for features — who I’ve been able to go back to for topic advice.

I’m so grateful for them all.