Hako Machines Ltd is sponsoring a young explorer’s expedition to the Arctic in order to conduct environmental research. Tom Townsend, aged 16, will spend the summer in Svalbard, Europe’s most northerly territory, just 600 miles from the North Pole, with the British Schools Exploring Society (BSES).

Townsend, from Llanelli, South Wales, is one of 60 students selected to take the trip which includes survival training prior to his departure. Whilst on the expedition, he will be involved in valuable environmental fieldwork and contributing to research on climate change, glaciology, ornithology as well as ecological studies of habitats. There will also be more daring and adventurous tasks such as mountaineering, trekking, cross-country skiing and camping in the wilderness.

Stuart Taylor, managing director of Hako Machines, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Tom in his expedition and look forward to hearing about his findings on his return. Obviously the environment is a constant consideration for us as a company and it is encouraging that youngsters are taking an active role in environmental research.”

Townsend, who celebrates his 17th birthday while on the trip, said: “I’m very grateful to Hako for its support and I’m looking forward to what I am sure will be a once in a lifetime experience.”