Intrepid pair determined to fulfil polar dream

After an escape from danger on the North Pole, two Irish explorers are already planning to return to the world’s most hostile environment.

Adventurers Clare O’Leary from Bandon, Co Cork, and Mike O’Shea from Dingle, Co Kerry, had hoped to be the first Irish people to walk to the North Pole.

However medical doctor Clare and rope safety expert Mike, who are due to fly home from Canada this weekend, were forced to turn back just a week into their 778km trek.