AN EXPEDITION to the very centre of the Arctic Ocean - as yet unreached by mankind - beckons for Endmoor man Richard McGuinness.

Mechanical design engineer Richard, 41, is among 28 people selected to take part in the first quest ever to the Northern Pole of Inaccessibility, 270 miles from the Geographic North Pole.

The 800-mile, 80-day world record attempt across treacherous sea ice has been described as "one of the most ambitious polar expeditions of our time" by its leader, world-respected explorer Jim McNeill.

Setting out from the northern shores of Canada next February, the Ice Warrior team aims to be the first in history to reach the Northern Pole of Inaccessibility - also known as the Arctic Pole - positioned at 85° 47' N, 176° 9' E.

En route, new scientific data will be gathered to document the state of the Arctic Ocean.

"I’ve never done anything like this before so it will be interesting to see if I can cut it as an Arctic explorer," said Richard, an experienced ice climber, paraglider and mountaineer who climbed Mont Blanc, Europe's highest peak, in 2013.

"It’s going to be incredibly tough and a real test of endurance, both physically and mentally. I’m sure, though, that with Jim's guidance and vast polar expertise we have a strong chance of success given the right conditions."

Richard, who lives with partner Andrea Simpson and works for James Fisher Aerospace, near Preston, said: "It’s fascinating and exciting that 28 ordinary people from all walks of life are being given this chance to join Jim on his epic endeavour over the frozen Arctic Ocean to possibly reach the Northern Pole of Inaccessibility - just amazing."

Legendary explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes is patron of the Ice Warrior Project, and partners include the NASA-funded National Snow and Ice Data Centre, the Met Office and the Scott Polar Institute.

The next few months will see Richard and the team taking part in all aspects of Arctic training. “The biggest test I face immediately is trying to raise the £25,000 required to join this once-in-a-lifetime expedition," said Richard. "It’s up to all team members to raise the funds individually, as it’s a hugely expensive task to get such a big team to such an inhospitable place with all the kit required."

Any businesses or individuals who would like to sponsor Richard can email richardm@ice-warrior.com.