Triple cancer survivor reaches South Pole after epic trek

Patrick McIntosh, seen in training for his epic journey, said he needed to trek more than 12 miles a day to reach the South Pole on time. Credit: PA Wire

A man who has overcome three types of cancer has said he is on "cloud nine" after reaching the South Pole to complete a 138-mile charity trek.

Patrick McIntosh's family said he has "had a cup of tea" to celebrate after arriving at the Pole on the anniversary of Captain Scott's iconic expedition.

The 58-year-old took on the expedition after being treated for bowel, skin and prostate cancer in the space of 13 months.

Facing temperatures as low as -40C, he got to the landmark 103 years to the day Scott reached the Pole on his ultimately fatal trip in 1912.

Mr McIntosh was guided by polar expert Conrad Dickinson, who led Prince Harry and his team on Walking With The Wounded in 2013.

The two men carried all supplies and equipment themselves.

Mr McIntosh, a financial adviser from Surrey, wants to raise £222,000 for his three chosen charities - Bowel Cancer UK, Prostate Cancer UK and the Voice Of The Listener And The Viewer.

The 58-year-old has run in more appealing temperatures to raise money for his chosen cancer charities. Credit: PA Wire

Mr McIntosh's granddaughter has been communicating with him daily and confirmed he had finished his journey.

Mr McIntosh has said he hoped to prove that with early diagnosis, it is possible to return to an invigorated life after cancer.

He has also urged people to respond quickly to any symptoms.

Bowel cancer is the second biggest cancer killer in the UK, larger even than breast or prostate cancer, yet if diagnosed early nine out of 10 people can survive it.