Happy new year from the South Pole (nearly)
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"Wow, time really does fly!" reported Strathspey solo polar hero Ben Weber, after the loneliest Hogmanay on the planet.
"I had hoped that after finally arriving in Antarctica a week late because of the conditions that I’d be able to make it to the Pole for New Year’s Day. It would have been so cool!
"But ah well, it wasn’t to be, and there is still a fair amount of work to do, so celebrations here are a little muted!"
On day 46 he had travelled another 23 kilometres on his epic way to the pole, in aid of cancer research.
"Just more skiing… uphill… and over lots of sastrugi (snow dunes created by the winds).
"All for another 23km… so tiring!
"But still, it is definitely a new year to remember so I can’t complain!"
But the 41-year-old explorer confessed it was tough seeing in the bells with no company.
"As with Christmas, I really do miss being with my family and seeing friends.
"I hope that you all have an amazing evening and enjoy all the festivities, and I wish you all the very best for the year ahead.
"I look forward to celebrating with you once am back."
You can support Ben’s chosen charity Cancer Research UK at his justgiving page
He is still keeping up his daily blogs and audio diary, which is always well worth a visit.
