Injured servicemen and women to attempt microflight across South Pole

A SEVEN-STRONG team of injured servicemen and women are set to attempt the world’s first microlight flight across the South Pole.

The team will fly more than 3,000 miles in a round-trip over Antartica in a lightweight, propeller-powered aircraft, braving temperatures as low as minus 30c.

The challenge will achieve three world firsts that have not been completed by anyone, disabled or not - the first flexible wing flight in Antarctica, the first over the South Pole and the first over the continent’s highest mountain, 16,050ft Mount Vinson.

The squadron’s patron Lord Jones described the expedition as “wonderful”.

Flying for Freedom is seeking to raise another £1.2 million to add to the money already donated by Lord Jones and EADS.

People wishing to donate are asked to visit www.fly2pole.com.