British Explorer, 55, On Verge Of History Dies During Unaided Antarctic Crossing

Explorer Henry Worsley has died during his attempt to become the first person to cross Antarctica unaided.

The former army officer, 55, was 71 days in to his journey, and on the brink of making history, when he had to call for help and was airlifted off the ice.

His wife, Joanna, confirmed that he died in a hospital in Chile from exhaustion and dehydration.

In a statement, she said: “It is with heartbroken sadness I let you know that my husband, Henry Worsley, has died following complete organ failure; despite all efforts of ALE and medical staff at the Clinica Magallanes in Punta Arenas, Chile.”

The ex-lieutenant colonel, from Fulham, London, battled temperatures of minus 44c to raise money for the Endeavour Fund, which helps injured and sick servicemen and women.

He began the 80-day, 1,100-mile trek in November, pulling a sledge with his food and equipment, in attempted to complete Sir Ernest Shackleton’s unfinished journey to the South Pole.

Henry Worsley with Prince William (PA)

But, after spending two days unable to move from his tent, the married father-of-two took the decision to pull out of the charity adventure.

He was flown to a hospital in Punta Arenas where he was found to have bacterial peritonitis. He underwent surgery but died on Sunday in hospital.

His wife Joanna said: “Henry achieved his Shackleton Solo goals: of raising over £100,000 for the Endeavour Fund, to help his wounded colleagues, and so nearly completing the first unsupported crossing of the Antarctic landmass,“ she said.

"A crossing made, under exceptionally difficult weather conditions, to mark the 100th anniversary of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Endurance expedition – his lifelong hero.

Prince William, who was patron of the expedition, said in a statement: "Harry and I are very sad to hear of the loss of Henry Worsley.

“He was a man who showed great courage and determination and we are incredibly proud to be associated with him.

Henry Worsley was 71 days into the 80-day trek (PA)

"Even after retiring from the army, Henry continued to show selfless commitment to his fellow servicemen and women, by undertaking this extraordinary Shackleton solo expedition on their behalf.

"We have lost a friend, but he will remain a source of inspiration to us all, especially those who will benefit from his support to the Endeavour Fund.

"We will now make sure that his family receive the support they need at this terribly difficult time.”