ACTION man Norman Butler is fighting against the clock to compete in his next awe-inspiring challenge.

Next month the 38-year-old commercial analyst of Westlea, Swindon, is hoping to take part in the greatest polar race since Scott and Amundsen.

His 400-mile trek to the Magnetic North Pole, pulling a 70kg sled, is planned to take about 30 days.

But he still needs sponsorship to take part in the event. The entry, training and equipment costs a total of £23,000.

He said: "I must raise a further £5,000 to make the flight to Canada on April 2. Can anyone help create local history and support Swindon's entry, supporting Swindon's local causes?"

Norman will encounter bitter winds on the walk, with temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees.

He will have to be prepared for falling through the ice into freezing waters and be vigilant against dangerous polar bears.

His first-class back-up team includes a dietician and a psychologist who both work with the British Olympic team, a GP experienced in sports science, several experienced Polar explorers and the national Human Performance Centre at Lilleshall.

In 2001 Norman successfully completed an unsupported row across the Atlantic Ocean, covering 3,143 miles in 82 days.

During this voyage, made in his self-built, 24ft long ocean rowing boat Spirit of Swindon, he had to overcome many hazards and obstacles including near fatal encounters with freighters, forked lightning, sleep deprivation, storms and 40ft waves.

Norman's projects have supported many causes in Swindon, including donations to, among others, Westlea Primary School and Prospect Hospice.

To help Norman contact him on Swindon 882198, (mobile) 07712 586945 or www.conquerandsurvive.co.uk