MP gives warm welcome to polar contestant

10.00.00am GMT Fri 16th Jan 2009

Paul Burstow, MP for Sutton and Cheam, yesterday met one of his constituents who is preparing to take part in probably the 'World's Toughest Race.'

Roger Davies will be setting off on March 29th, on a journey the like of which fewer than 450 people in the world have ever undertaken. He'll be taking part in The Polar Race, a 400 mile trek starting from Resolute Bay, Northern Canada, expected to take around 20 days.

Mr Davies is part of a team of three who will be competing against 5 other determined teams cross some of the world's most desolate terrain in the quickest time and reach the Pole first. His preparation currently includes daily trips to the gym and the team will also be training inside a cold store to help them acclimatise to the cold.

As his local MP, Mr Burstow was keen to meet Mr Davies, who suffered a heart attack in February. But he did not allow this to deter him but and has continued his polar preparations after having a stent put in his chest.

While Mr Davies is relishing the challenge of the race, he is also hoping to benefit people closer to home by raising money in sponsorship for the Children's Trust, Tadworth. The charity provides care, education and therapy to children with multiple disabilities and complex health needs.

Following their meeting Mr Burstow said:

'I am have nothing but admiration for Mr Davies and the incredible challenge he is taking on by racing to the Pole. It's been intriguing today to hear the level of training and detailed preparation that is necessary for such a gruelling contest.

'I wish Mr Davies every success and look forward to hearing about how the race goes as well as how much money he manages to raise for The Children's Trust. Hopefully he won't come back with any stories involving polar bears!'