A HAMPSHIRE mum has spoken of her pride and apprehension as her son prepares to embark on the longest unaided Arctic expedition ever attempted.

Former soldier Adrian Hayes, pictured right, is just days away from the start of a 2,200-mile journey from the tip of Greenland to the Arctic Circle.

As reported in the Daily Echo, he and two fellow explorers will be hauled across the ice by kites attached to harnesses around their waists.

Adrian set off for Greenland yesterday after bidding farewell to his mother Linda, 82, and older brother Damian, pictured below.

Linda, of Ringwood Road, Netley Marsh, said: “We always feel apprehensive when he sets off on an expedition because things can go wrong.

“I just hope and pray that all goes well – fortunately the two people with him are also very experienced.”

Adrian, who grew up in Totton but now lives in Dubai, has already been to the North and South poles and conquered Everest.

Mrs Hayes added: “It’s amazing what he’s achieved in his life. We’re all very proud of him.”