A SOMERSET Freemason is training on Weston-super-Mare beach ahead of a 100km ski trek within the Artic Circle in aid of an ambulance service.

Steve Collings' challenge is looking to raise the further £40,000 needed to reach the overall cost of £160,000 which will help two Community Support Units for St. John Ambulance.

Steve hopes to add substantial support through his personal effort and the support of well-wishers and friends.

On a blustery damp February Sunday morning St John volunteers met Steve at one of his regular training sessions on Weston s Mare beach. Steve trains most days to build up his strength and stamina to complete the challenge in Arctic Norway in March.

The trek includes five nights in a tent on the ice and Ice Fishing for dinner, all a new experience for Steve.

St John Ambulance is a frontline life-saving charity whose volunteers are regularly seen in their local communities providing first aid care and support at events, life-saving training and a vibrant youth movement of Cadets and Badgers.

The Community Support Unit is a versatile vehicle that enables a St John team of volunteers and their equipment to be readily transported to a local event and have a clearly recognised operational base from which to provide first aid, training, and general support to the public.