Women take on the Pole

Researchers at Cambridge University are conducting a sociological study of the first feminist ski expedition across Antarctica to the South Pole.

The study will track a team of women aged between 50 and 60 who want to challenge the traditional model of the South Pole expedition led by a heroic man. The group will embark on its journey in autumn next year with no nominated leader.

"Ranulph Fiennes is their anti-role model," said Eileen Richardson, director of Cambridge's Centre for Women and Leadership, which is heading the study.

The research will investigate whether a feminine model of leadership works, as well as monitoring group dynamics.

One researcher from the university's faculty of social and political sciences will focus on the impact of this sort of physical strain on post-menopausal women.

She said: "They must achieve a range of goals, including raising a huge amount of money, bonding as a team, achieving physical fitness and mental fitness, which they see as their biggest challenge."