Every Friday we ask somebody in Cumbria’s business community to tell us how they keep fit… Today it’s the turn of in-Cumbria’s nuclear correspondent, Bridget Dempsey

How many times a week do you like to exercise?

A couple of times a week.

What sort of exercise do you do?

Walking and going to the gym

Do you have any fitness goals?

I would like to be able to run a half marathon one day – however that may not be on the cards for some time!

What’s the most physically challenging thing you have done in your life?

I once sailed around the Greek islands with my family and have also walked a few of the bigger Lake District fells such as Grisedale Pike early one New Year’s eve morning to catch the last sunrise of the year surrounded by snow up to our knees!

How does keeping fit impact on your work?

I really do think that a healthy body contributes to a healthy mind, getting to the gym before starting work is a good motivator to take on the day.

In Cumbria:

Which sportsperson/fitness expert do you most admire?

Rob Burrow. As a big rugby league fan I always admired Rob as a young kid watching him play and now even more so seeing the adversity he and his family have tackled in recent years after his MND diagnosis and the spirit of friendship between him and Kevin Sinfield - they really are the ultimate teammates.

I also greatly admire West Cumbrian Gary Mckee. Having spoken to him a number of times he is a lovely man and his 365 challenge was the ultimate peak of physical endurance.

When in your life did you feel at your fittest?

I did a fitness plan in Covid to try and keep the lockdown pounds at bay and probably got to my fittest point whilst doing that. When I was younger I also swam for a club for a while and was quite competitive.

On days when you don’t feel like getting out of bed, what motivates you to get up and go?

I think summer always helps. Light mornings are a big motivator for me and it’s always nice to see the sun shining through your curtains.

How do you ensure a work/life balance?

I think it’s hard in the job that we do to maintain a full work/life balance as there’s always a story around! Switching off the laptop is a big thing for me as I try to make sure it doesn’t go on until the next morning, however that’s not always easy.

What’s your top tip for remaining motivated?

I think always having a goal in sight. Whether it be fitness or work it’s always important to know what you want and have a clear objective view.