Very few people manage to visit all seven continents of the world in their lifetime – but Moulton man David Pritchard is among them.
He has just returned from an expedition to Antarctica – one of the most inhospitable and inaccessible places on Earth – that has not only been a defining moment in his career, but also a life-changing experience.
David, a GE employee at Sutton Bridge Power Station, took part in the 2041 expedition led by Robert Swan, one of Britain’s leading polar explorers.
Working for up to 14 hours a day, David explored icy waters in zodiac inflatable boats and attended lectures late into the night to fully understand the challenges ahead for the continent.
The organisation 2041 is named after the year when the Antarctic Treaty is due to be revisited and ratified by all signing nations. Robert’s message is to urge world leaders to commit to a treaty that protects Antarctica beyond that date and well into the future.
David said: “My visit to Antarctica means that I have now stepped on all seven continents, but this was by far the most extreme environment of them all.
“It is only when you see such a magnificent and beautiful place that you appreciate how important it is to preserve it, not just for ourselves and our children, but for all future generations.
“This has been a life-changing trip for me. I went thinking it would be a fantastic way to focus on developing my leadership skills in a very unique setting, but have also come back a committed champion for protecting the Antarctic.
“I want to share what I learnt with as many people as possible to help make sure that in 2041, our future world leaders will make the right decision to ensure the Antarctic is not exploited and can remain the same brutally beautiful place that it is today.”
As well as becoming an ambassador for 2041, the expedition also helped David to discover his strengths for leadership and develop his own style that will not only help his own career, but also looks at how such responsible leadership can help preserve the planet.
Andrew Mackintosh, a director at MPF Operations, the owners of Sutton Bridge Power Station and sponsors for David’s trip, said: “Together with GE, we want to improve leadership and management skills throughout the business and this expedition will help to introduce different ideas and show us all that we have a part to play in protecting the planet.”
