I guess I would add, if you can get out there as women, please do so. Help us claim the paths and normalise the idea that women run and hike alone. Not just for your freedom, but for all.

In the woods I felt no fear, but close to roads I grew anxious, turning off my head torch and disappearing deep into paths if a car drew close.

It shouldn't be this way. Women need to feel safe, to have the freedom to enjoy the countryside, but so many are shackled by fear through life experience.

Wild garlic scent filled the air as leaves started to push up through the woodland earth. A barn owl hunted as the sun sank. Foxes, toads and deer looked back at me, startled by the intrusion.

(2/2) Our beautiful Hampshire countryside is most notable for being the home of literary luminary Jane Austen, whose 250th anniversary we also celebrate this year.

As a fan of her work, I was proud to pay tribute to Austen's enduring legacy during the Commons' debate on International Women's Day.