737 Leg 6 The North Pole - Day 110

They’re flying over the ice today, weather permuting to try and find a suitable ice flow to open Barneo logistics camp. So fingers crossed! The delay, although scary, is good to get some more rest, tighten my systems and mind to the cold environment (-27c here in Spitsbergen and about -40c on the ice, from +35 in the jungle ha!

We have also had a chance to trial our rented gear (stoves, tent, skis etc) and teamwork with Steve. We will be moving as a group of about 8 but made up of smaller totally self-sufficient groups. Us as a team of 2. No group gear. Seen loads of guys from Antarctica here already, which is cool. Feeling confident having spent time in Greenland preparing for this and obviously I'm pretty comfortable in these environments, but having spent time with the Russian crew last night I was reminded just how hostile and unpredictable this leg is and will be, which raises the stakes.

We've just bumped into Ben Fogle in a cafe, he's reporting for an American channel here. What a really nice guy! He knew who I was and all about the challenge and he took a photo of Steve, him and I, which you can see on Facebook and Twitter.

Oh, we are using specially made buoyant pulks to use as rafts to cross the open leads. The immersion suits were too expensive and heavy to use. On this leg I won’t have my dog Super Ben picture on the side like I did on the South Pole! We haven't packed everything yet so don't know weight but will keep you updated.