Henry Worsley: Explorer dies in attempt to cross the Antarctic alone

 Army officer Mr Worsley, 55, from Fulham, died after being airlifted to hospital

Prince William today paid tribute to explorer Henry Worsley who died on the brink of making a historic Antarctic solo crossing.

Former Army officer Mr Worsley, 55, from Fulham, west London died yesterday in hospital in Punta Arenas, Chile.

He undertook the expedition as a tribute to his idol Sir Ernest Shackleton and exceeded his goal of raising a £100,000 for the Endeavour Fund, a charity founded to help the recovery of injured servicemen and women

Today The Duke of Cambridge, Patron of the Shackleton Solo Expedition, said:“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.”

Mr Worsley leaves behind his wife Joanna, 56, and children Max, 21, and Alicia, 19.

His widow said: “It is with heartbroken sadness I let you know that my husband Henry Worsley has died following complete organ failure.

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

“On behalf of myself and family I wish to thank the many hundreds of you who have shown unfailing support to Henry throughout his courageous final challenge and great generosity to the Endeavour Fund.”

The amount raised stands at £107,293.

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