British explorer Henry Worsley dies crossing Antarctica

A British adventurer has died after suffering exhaustion and dehydration while attempting to cross Antarctica alone.

Former Army officer Henry Worsley was just 48 km from the end of the almost 1,600 km trek when he called for help and was airlifted off the ice on Friday. His family said on Monday that Worsley died “following complete organ failure” at a clinic in Punta Arenas, Chile.

The 55-year-old Worsley covered more than 900 miles in 71 days, pulling supplies on a sled, while attempting to complete Ernest Shackleton’s unfinished South Pole expedition of a century ago. Worsley’s wife Joanna said the expedition had raised more than £100,000 for wounded troops. Prince William, patron of the expedition, said he and brother Prince Harry had lost a friend.

He paid tribute to Lt. Col. Worsley’s “selfless commitment” to his fellow servicemen and women, and pledged to make sure his family receive all they support they need. William 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. “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.”