Polar crossing in jeopardy

The attempt by British adventurer Sir Ranulph Fiennes to become the first man to walk alone and unsupported across the Antarctic is in jeopardy because he is suffering from kidney stones.

Twenty-six days into the journey, Fiennes is said to be in excruciating pain and has been forced to halt. The next 48 hours will be crucial as he melts down snow to try to flush the stones through his body. It is feared he may be forced to abandon the attempt, which was intended to raise pounds 1m for the breast cancer charity Breakthrough.