AFTER facing raging thunderstorms, choppy seas and sleep deprivation, Sir David Hempleman-Adams is nearing the end of a gruelling solo voyage across the Atlantic Ocean.

The Swindon-born adventurer has reached Bermuda during his 35-day journey from Southampton to New York, following in the footsteps of his hero Sir Francis Chichester.

The 62-year-old will enjoy a well-deserved break on dry land before refuelling and embarking on the final leg of what he has called his biggest challenge yet.

He said: “As we closed in on Bermuda, so dog-tired from hand-helming, Mother Nature unleashed her worst.

“This was the mother of all squalls. We went from ten knots to 40 knots in seconds. My bum was firmly underwater, Chione was going like the clappers and, honestly, I simply couldn’t control this boat.

“Angry growls of thunder, huge flashes of lightning striking the sea around us – feeling terrifyingly close. It crossed my mind that, as the highest thing in the ocean, we would certainly get hit. I didn’t even have my rubber diapers to sit on. After what seemed like forever, the storm slowly passed and we began to see the first shimmering signs of light pollution on the horizon.”

Sir David is the first person in history to reach the geographic and magnetic North and South Poles as well as climb the highest peaks in all seven continents but his relative inexperience at sailing has made this ambitious feat his toughest yet.

The challenge aims to raise awareness and money for St John Ambulance, a charity of which Sir David has been a trustee for 12 years and an advocate for more than 25, and inspire others to get out of their comfort zone and try something new.

He added: “Throughout this journey, I’ve relied on previous experiences to keep me motivated. 19 years ago, I reached the North Pole by balloon, It still feels so vivid – and was maybe the last time I felt this tired."

Sir David has travelled hundreds of nautical miles and is keen to get started on the last leg of the trip. His daily diary entries have given followers an exciting account of all the highs and lows of his month at sea, which have ranged from the joy of seeing the stars to the woe of a blocked toilet.

Find out more about Sir David’s journey by visiting sja.org.uk/discovery