An international mountain guide has returned from a dream 20-day expedition to the Antarctic.

And Stuart McNeil’s adventure completed a long-held quest to set foot on all seven continents.

“It was an absolutely fantastic experience,” said the 56-year-old former Royal Marine.

“It’s so pristine with such amazing scenery. You can only go onto the ice cap for short periods to help preserve it.”

Mr McNeil was born in Keighley and lived at Oakworth for many years. He joined the marines in 1974 and, after leaving in the early 80s, had a spell as a firefighter in Keighley. His passion for mountaineering and other outdoor pursuits stretches back many years.

And that love has now taken him to every part of the globe.

His latest adventure was acting as a guide on a polar cruise.

“It is a fabulous continent,” said Mr McNeil, who now lives in Buxton.

“When I got the chance to go on the trip I thought it was a great opportunity and grabbed it. I’m so pleased I did.”