Two explorers are preparing to use kite-power to cross the Antarctic at a record-breaking pace.

The men, one from Greater Manchester, the other from the Irish Republic, have just completed trials in Switzerland.

Their special buggies were designed by a Formula One racing engineer, and it is hoped they can cover the 650 mile trip two months faster than normal.

Brian Cunningham, 59, of Bolton and Jamie Young, 50, both experienced adventurers, aim to set off on the 10-day journey on 24 December.

The team will use one of the most powerful resources Antarctica offers - the wind

Anne Kershaw, Adventure Network International

Anne Kershaw, president of Adventure Network International, which manages visits to Antarctica, said: "The expedition is going to revolutionise the way people travel across Antarctica forever.

"It will mean we can now cover distances much quicker than before and with much less effort.

"The team will be using one of the most powerful natural resources that Antarctica has to offer - the wind."

The buggies, designed by Kieron Bradley of the Williams Formula One team, can reach speeds of 40mph, are propelled across the ice fields by huge kite sails.

Father-of-three Mr Cunningham, 59, said: "We are going to be flying along."