Action men prepare for Arctic (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Action men prepare for Arctic

CIRENCESTER action man Charlie Martell and the Commando Joe team were braving extreme temperatures last week as part of a warm-up for an expedition to the Arctic.

As part of the preparations for their Polar Challenge the team have been spending time in the University of Gloucestershire's Environmental Chamber. The chamber can emulate temperatures from anywhere on the planet, including sub-zero Arctic conditions.

Commando Joe had their first session in the chamber this week ahead of the 320-mile Polar Challenge next month. Charlie explained: "Arctic training is part-and-parcel of becoming a Commando which means we'll have an advantage over other teams of not being surprised by the intensity of the cold."

The team will be using their time in the Environmental Chamber to get their bodies used to the cold and to practice tasks such as cooking and tent pitching.

The Arctic Challenge is the first of three extreme challenges for Commando Joe. The team of former and serving army commandos are also planning to row the Atlantic and race across the desert over the next few years in aid of the Meningitis Trust. With the gruelling 19-day Polar race the team are hoping to raise at least £20,000.

For more information on Commando Joe visit their website at www.commando-joe.co.uk