Jim describes to BBC's Robert Hall how the Qajaq will revolutionise polar travel

BBC Online

Jim said the Qajaq tested well in the Thames, but it will face a sterner challenge in the icy extremes of the Arctic where temperatures can fall to -45C.

"I have been exploring the Arctic for 25 years and in this time I've seen the dramatic effects of global warming," Mr McNeill said.

"It used to be one solid sheet of ice that you could walk across.

"Now it's interspersed with stretches of icy water - if you look at it from satellite images it's like crazy paving, hence the need to build the Qajaq."

The vessel is fitted with runners and acts as a sledge for dragging the kit and equipment of his four-man team.

For more information on the Qajaq please contact Jim.

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