Former BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin has been hospitalised after suffering frostbite during an Arctic cycling challenge. The 57-year-old was attempting to cycle 300 miles in three days in Canada's Northwest Territories to raise money for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.
Minchin and her teammate, Guinness World Record holder Mimi Anderson, were forced to abandon the race after 14 hours due to dangerously cold winds. Temperatures fell below -40°C with wind chill, causing frostbite, particularly on Minchin's toes.
In a social media update from her hospital bed, Minchin said: 'I have been in hospital ever since, both in Inuvik and in the UK, and have been given incredible care. I will be OK, but I am only at the start of an even bigger challenge, a long and bumpy road to recovery.'
Fans have sent messages of support, with one writing: 'Wishing you a full recovery and as much rest as needed.' Another said: 'Take your time, and you'll be back stronger than ever.'
The Inuvik Weekend Warrior Fat Bike Challenge involved cycling across frozen rivers and remote highways. March average temperatures in the region range from -13°C to -23°C, but on March 20, temperatures dropped to -30°C, with wind chills reaching -36°C, conditions that can cause frostbite in as little as 10 minutes.
