Joe Simpson

From Joy Division to Etta James. Mountaineer and author Joe Simpson shares his castaway choices with Sue Lawley.

Born in Kuala Lumpur in 1960, Joe showed an early adventurous spirit and love of sport at school. But it was only after reading the classic account of attempted ascents on the Eiger - 'The White Spider' - by Heinrich Harrer that he developed an interest in his future passion.

Joe famously tackled a previously unconquered route up Siula Grande - a peak in the Peruvian Andes. This climb was to make his name – with his partner Simon Yates making the first successful ascent of the mountain's west face. But they hit difficulties after Joe shattered his leg on their descent. The actions that Simon subsequently took caused controversy.

Yet told he’d never climb again, Joe wasn't to be thwarted...

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2004.