It gives me great pleasure to recognise and encourage the challenge that The Women's South Pole 2000 Expedition have taken on.

Their first and triumphant expedition of 1997 as part of the first British all women relay team to reach the North Pole was remarkable. They demonstrated the qualifications of commitment and team-manship, without which their feat would not have been possible.

Once again, and with equal professionalism in their approach, they intend to become the first group of British women to reach both Poles.

Their achievements to date are a tribute to their courage and their vision, and I wholly endorse their second challenge and look forward to following their progress.

Ranulph Fiennes

Since the inception of their North Pole trip in 1996, I have worked closely with all the ladies who are currently preparing for their Antarctic Expedition.

My role, initially, was to help and plan their training exercises in Dartmoor, and Snowdonia. Last year, I also helped them in situ at Resolute Bay in NWT.

Having been lucky enough myself to go to both North and South Poles with Ranulph Fiennes, I can appreciate the problems they may encounter in Antarctica, They are all extremely keen, fit, and capable of fulfilling their objective, and any guidance they may need, I will happily give.

I wish them all the best of luck in their endeavour.

Oliver Shepard

Astronomy and spotting scopes www.optisale.com .

In 1997 a team of ladies achieved the most remarkable feat of human endurance and courage by becoming the first all women expedition to reach the North Pole. The team have reunited to undertake a historic challenge to walk to the South Pole and intend to celebrate their arrival at the Pole as the new millennium dawns. I am very priviledged to have been invited to support this historic adventure.

The team will be the first group of British women to reach both Poles. As well as undertaking scientific research en route they aim to raise considerable funds for charity. Their unique ambition has gained the Patronage of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales as well as attracting endorsement from a number of other figures of note.

This record breaking walk has enormous sponsorship potential in conjunction with the tremendous international media coverage that will be generated.

I am very proud to be associated with this magnificent unique adventure and wish the team every success.

The Earl of Lichfield

South Pole 2000 represents a journey of gender long overdue, which I hope will act as a beacon for many similar projects.

You have that rare combination of qualities; the imagination to see, the tenacity to believe and the indomitable energy that attracts, infects, and drives a team toward a goal.

On your North Pole trip in 1997 the logistics were well organised and you demonstrated a commitment to supporters and sponsors which was remarkable.

I wish all of you every success and look forward to celebrating on the first morning of the next millenium.

Stephen Martin