SEVERE sleep deprivation and sub zero temperatures didn't stop a hardened marathon man trekking 300 miles across the Arctic.

Hay-on-Wye estate agent Martin Like has braved extreme cold and treacherous conditions to conquer one of the toughest races in the world - the Yukon Arctic Ultra marathon.

Despite a foot injury, Martin, 38, completed the hazardous journey in the allotted eight days, carrying all his kit on a sledge, and was the only Briton to do so.

The Clee Tompkinson & Francis estate agent is no stranger to marathons having completed the London Marathon and three other Ultra events in Morocco, Alaska and Jordan, but says the trail conditions this years were far from ideal.

"The temperature variations were considerable. My words on completion of this race were 'never again' - but within one week I was already entertaining the idea of going back next year," he said.

Martin took part in one of the coldest challenges possible in aid of Cancer Research UK Cymru and with the Hay-on-Wye Local Committee raised £2,159. He would like to thank the committee for its support, enthusiasm and confidence in his ability to finish the race.