Mr Mee is trying to retrace the steps of Victorian explorer Sir John Ross

Dom Mee, from West Buckland, Somerset, is to lead a team on what he believes to be the first trek to the high Arctic harbours for more than 170 years.

The ex-Royal Marine quit his solo attempt last year after being trapped by ice and attacked by a Musk Ox.

The team, due to leave the UK on 26 July, will include four Royal Marines.

Exercise Arctic Quest 1832 will aim to cover an area of more than 200 miles.

'Story must be told'

Mr Mee, 33, is attempting to retrace the steps of Victorian explorer Sir John Ross.

His team will attempt to reach the harbours of Thom Bay where the Victorian explorer wintered.

Mr Mee was unable to reach this point last time, turning back 35 miles from Victory Bay, which lies on the edge of Thom Bay.

Sir John and his team spent three years trapped in the Arctic after setting out in 1829 to find the fabled North West Passage.

"I said that I would return, this story needs to be fully told," Mr Mee said.

"Ross and his crew's endeavours leave me numb with admiration."

Joining him are Corporal Barry Campbell, from Blyth, Northumberland, Corporal Craig Haslam, from Newcastle, Corporal Paul Cronin, from Surrey, and Colour Sergeant Mark Cowell, all Royal Marines.

Historian Susan Cox, from London, and Surrey-based Lt Commander Mark Hankey of the Royal Naval Reserves, who is a direct descendent of Sir John, will also make the trip.