Fell Racing, Feminism & Jewellery with Grit
What muddy shoes and sleek silver have in common
There’s a moment, mid-race, usually uphill and calf-deep in bog, where I start to question my life choices.
I could be at home, tea in hand, dog asleep at my feet, soldering a neat little pendant at the bench. But instead, I’m halfway up a mountain ridge, breathing through what feels like a straw, surrounded by people who look suspiciously cheerful about it all.
And yet — I keep signing up.
Fell racing isn’t glamourous. It’s ankle-twisting paths, sideways rain, and clag so thick you can lose sight of your own knees. It’s strength, stubbornness, and knowing exactly where to put your foot when everything’s moving under you.
Which, incidentally, is not a bad metaphor for life as a woman — or a jeweller.
The Feminist Bit
When I first started making this kind of jewellery, I was drawn to words like fierce, strong, bold. Not because they sounded good — but because I needed them. Sometimes still do.
There’s something deliciously subversive about creating delicate-looking jewellery that can take a battering. I design pieces that are made to be worn — in rain, on ridges, with mud on your shoes and wind in your face. Not just for nice dinners and curated Instagram feeds.
Jewellery that says: I’m here. I’m not shrinking. And I don’t need polishing up to be worthy.
Making & Moving
Running and making might look like opposites — but for me, they’re the same instinct. Both require endurance. Both demand presence. And both are a kind of resistance. Against speed, against perfection, against being told to sit still and behave.
Some days I hammer out silver. Some days I hammer out miles. Either way, I’m building strength.
Finishing Lines & Future Pieces
The Fairfield Horseshoe is done — brutal climbs, quad-jarring descents, battered legs, sweaty grin and all. I ran it, I swore at it, I finished it.
And just maybe, that feeling — of power, perseverance, and pure stubborn (Type 2) fun — will find its way into the next piece I make.
Because the truth is: jewellery can be delicate, but it doesn’t have to be weak.
And women can be fierce, even when we’re out of breath and covered in sheep shit.
