The Charity race to the South Pole, involving teams of injured veterans and of course our own Prince Harry has been suspended, but not because of the outdoor clothing shops and brands provided, but due to a number of injuries and safety concerns. However, the journey will continue but at a more leisurely pace, if that is possible in such extreme conditions.

The organisers made the decision over the weekend after it was found that although all the teams were making progress, there was “a higher degree of stress imposed on the team members due to unprecedented terrain on the plateau” according to Ed Parker the director of the expedition. The journey will continue over a new course that has been plotted and the teams are expected to complete the new route over the next week. So although the race is over, the strenuous trek for all three teams continues.

The three teams are made up of both veterans who have been injured in action and a couple of celebrity participants, namely The Wire’s Dominic West and from True Blood no other than Alexander Skarsgard, as well as our own Royal Prince. “Soldier On” is made up from ex-servicemen from Australia and Canada; “Soldiers to Summit” are from the USA, plus our own team from “Walking with the Wounded”.

So far the teams have encountered temperatures of -35C, altitude sickness and various knocks and strains caused by pulling the 200lb sledges across the icy terrain. Even the guides accompanying the trip have not been immune, with one having to withdraw after water begin seeping into his lungs and was having trouble breathing as a result. So it makes sense that the race was suspended and a new route was located.

However, when the teams finish it will be seen as a great achievement and will have helped to raise funds for all three charities taking part.

You might not have to go as far as the South Pole this winter but for the best outdoor clothing shops can supply to keep you warm and safe check out the website and our latest additions.