A PERSONAL trainer from Greenock has been hand-picked for a world record attempt to reach the Arctic's treacherous Northern Pole of Inaccessibility.

Fitness fanatic Kris Law has been chosen by renowned British explorer Jim McNeill for a once in a lifetime challenge.

The 26-year-old will be part of a team attempting to reach the furthest point from land in the Arctic.

The expedition is scheduled for February next year and is expected to take 80 days, covering 800 miles.

Kris, who served in the army until 2014, will be in one of four teams taking part in the punishing trek through constantly moving snow and ice.

Each group will complete one of four 20-day legs of the 'Last Pole' expedition.

Temperatures could plunge to -40C and Kris says he will have to dodge 'ice boulders' the size of cars.

Despite the scale of the challenge, the former Notre Dame High pupil is undeterred.

Kris told the Tele: "It's extreme and very over the top.

"This is the chance to be part of not only a world first attempt but to contribute in a huge way towards understanding and spreading awareness about the state of our planet's climate."

Kris, who comes from Bannockburn Street, works as a personal trainer and also teaches Muay Thai.

He spent four years in the army as a radio operator and driver and served in Afghanistan and also had a spell in Germany before leaving in 2014.

After some time travelling the world, including south east Asia, Kris returned home and got involved in health and fitness.

As well as attempting to make history in reaching the centre of the Arctic Ocean, Kris and the rest of the team will be collecting vital information, including weather patterns and polar bear numbers, to help scientists study the impact of climate change.

He said: "Even in the army, I didn't get to do anything as cool as this. "It will be the biggest and hardest thing I've ever attempted but it will be raising awareness of an important issue."

Explorer Jim added: "I'm delighted to have Kris on the team and look forward to training him in every aspect which will make him a competent polar traveller."

Kris needs to generate £22,000 to fund his participation, including training, equipment, food and clothing, and he is appealing to any sponsors or anyone who can help to get in touch.

He said: "This isn't something a lot of people would want to do and those who do are overwhelmed with the money involved."

To sponsor Kris, email krislaw1234@gmail.com or call 07930 425462.

For more information about the expedition visit www.ice-warrior.com