65 Degrees North in Norway: Day 2 training

The 10-strong group have completed their second day of training in Norway ahead of setting out on their 140-km, six-day expedition across the Hardangervidda Plateau on Friday, March 17.

Group leader George Matthews said: "It's been a tiring but rewarding day with the whole team making good progress in controlled ascent and descent….essential skills for the conditions and terrain they will encounter on the crossing.

"Snow conditions have again been excellent and temperatures cold at times but not excessively so. Some adjustments to skis and boots have been made to ensure we are well set for the crossing. It has been a full and fun day with steeper gradients to be negotiated, familiarisation with tents, emergency shelters and snowshoes interspersed with an excellent first aid session delivered by Ben and some top tips on packing rucksacks for the crossing by Billy.

"Morale is high and we are looking forward to a morning session tomorrow back out on the local trails before final packing and catching the train up to our start point at Finse.

"Today has been a very good day. Confidence is growing and there is a tangible sense of camaraderie and teamwork among the group. They have achieved a huge amount in a very short time and it is humbling to see."