A former Bradford woman who conquered Antarctica is set to embark on another world record breaking challenge - as part of the first women's expedition on foot to the North Pole.
Ann Daniels, 37, a mother of triplets whose parents live in Allerton, earned herself a place in history as a female polar explorer, having conquered the South Pole in 2000 in a trek with the first all-female group to reach the Pole. She was also part of a relay team to the North Pole in 1997.
Now she is part of a trio from the original group who are attempting to walk to the North Pole in March, making them the first women's team in the world to walk the 500 miles.
Ann told the Telegraph & Argus she was excited about the challenge. "I have got used to going on these expeditions and I can't ever see myself just sitting back in an armchair and letting the world go by," she said, "I love the Antarctic - it's a beautiful, serene, unspoiled part of the world."
"Last time I went, it was a relay and I didn't actually get to the end because I had walked the first bit, but this time we will be doing the whole 500 miles."
Ann said her seven-year-old triplets - Rachel, Lucy and Joseph - are her inspiration. When she has difficult moments on the ice, she literally chants the names of her children with each step she takes.
For the three months while Ann is away, they will be looked after by her mother Kathleen.
"Last time the children moved back to Bradford but now they are settled at school in Exeter, where we live, so we thought it best if my parents come and live in our house," she said.
"The children think it's exciting. They think I am going to hand deliver a letter to Santa! Their school is very involved, so they will be following my progress."
An internet link will keep the family informed of Ann's progress on the trip. It's a journey she knows is going to be tough.
Despite the worldwide attention bestowed upon Ann since she took part in the record-breaking treks, her feet remain firmly on the ground. After the South Pole trip, the team was feted by Prince Charles and won a Pride of Britain award presented by the Prime Minister for their outstanding achievements.
Ann, who has just completed the first draft of her autobiography, is now preparing for the trip, after enjoying a family Christmas in Bradford.
"We had a great time, it was lovely to be back home," she said.
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