Solent coastguard help save explorers - in Iceland (From Daily Echo)

Solent coastguard help save explorers - in Iceland

12:50pm Thursday 9th February 2012 in News By Tara Russell, News Reporter

Two Hampshire explorers trapped on the edge of an Icelandic glacier in a freezing storm were saved from disaster – by Solent coastguards.

The two young men, believed to be 25-year-old record-breaking polar explorer Alex Hibbert and climber Finn McCann, were dangerously close to the edge of a notorious ice cap when they were caught up in treacherous weather conditions and 80mph winds.

Their tent was ripped apart and the duo became exposed to the freezing temperatures and unable to move. At 12.09am yesterday one of the explorers used their satellite phone to call their dad, who lives in Hampshire.

The father then phoned Solent Coastguard, based in Lee-on-the-Solent, reporting the emergency situation that was unfolding thousands of miles away.

Rescuers in Hampshire then alerted Falmouth Coastguard, which has an international liaison role.

Information was then passed to the coastguard in MRCC Reykjavik, who sent out local rescue teams to save the explorers who are taking part in a glacier expedition across Vatnajokull, in Iceland.

Alex, a public speaker, photographer and author of The Long Haul, who completed the longest unsupported polar journey in history in 2008, began crossing the notorious winter ice caps on 31 January, according to his blog.

On February 2, he reported on his Twitter feed: “Torrential snow and sleet but nearly at icecap. Totally sodden wet and wind is up!”

But by February 5 he made it onto the ice cap and the weather had calmed. But conditions became treacherous and on Monday he said they were “pinned down in the storm”. The next day, he added: “Still unable to move in storm. So close to edge of ice cap.”

And yesterday he reported the tent had been damaged, adding: “Assessing the damage to tent and kit. Grim. That was quite a wind. Tent like a tiny tomb inside.”

Andy Condy, from Falmouth Coastguard, said: “We are pleased that we could assist in the rescue of these two British men from their situation. People who are considering this type of expedition should avail themselves with contact details of emergency services in the country they are exploring.”

Fred Caygill, of Solent Coastguard, added: “The family said they are pleased to hear they are safe and well and were grateful to the coastguard.”