On Saturday a team of 12 will embark on a challenge to ski and walk 140 miles across the Canadian Arctic circle in aid of explorer David Hempleman-Adams' xharity, the Mitchemp Trust.

The team of inexperienced adventure enthusiasts and keen charity workers will attempt to travel across one of the most unforgiving landscapes in the world, in temperatures as low as -40c, in just 10 days.

They aim to raise £90,000 for the youth development charity and have been training extensively on the use of specialist equipment and other skills required to survive the harsh Arctic environment.

The Mitchemp Trust's director and expedition team leader, Mark Davey, said: "The expedition is a tremendous personal challenge for all those involved.

"My primary concern will be the safety of the team who will face serious dangers such as frost bite/nip, Polar Bears and possible injury."

Wiltshire explorer Mr Hempleman-Adams, who lives near Box, added: "I'd like to wish the team good luck for what will be an incredible journey through one of the harshest environments on the planet.

"It will be a true test of their endurance and stamina. Thanks also to the team for raising much needed funds for the Mitchemp Trust, a charity that I set up 14 years ago to inspire vulnerable young children in Wiltshire to learn and achieve."

Team members on the expedition include National Geographic photographer Martin Hartley; The Independent on Sunday business editor Andrew Murray-Watson; ethical investor Jason Colchin-Carter; City PR executive Lydia Purnell; socialite Nick Gold and photographic artist Mark Johnson.