A REDDITCH businessman has begun preparations to undertake the greatest challenge of his life.

Dean Attwell plans to reach the most northern point on the planet, the North Pole, and hopes to raise a staggering £100,000 in the process for Cancer Research UK.

Set to leave on April 10, it will take Dean up to 16 days to complete his polar mission.

Dean said: “Turning 50 this year I decided I’d trek to the North Pole, one of the biggest challenges I have so far undertaken.

“Having lost my mother-in-law to cancer in October 2015 and subsequently seeing the devastating effect that cancer has had on members of my family, friends and colleagues over the last 12 months, I wanted to do something to raise money for a cause which will almost certainly affect each and every one of us, directly or indirectly, at some stage in the future.”

Dean added: “All expedition costs are covered, so every penny donated will go directly towards Cancer Research UK and the amazing things they do to fight off this indiscriminate disease known as Cancer.”

The expedition will involve eight to 10 hours of walking each day in temperatures that can drop to -45 degrees centigrade, whilst pulling a 50kg sled containing his tent, food and all his supplies for two weeks.

For more or to donate, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/NorthPoleDean