Bestselling author Andy McNab is set to embark on a historic trek to the South Pole this month in aid of The Reading Agency's #ReadingJourney appeal, joining The Endurance 100 as they follow in the footsteps of Ernest Shackleton 100 years on from his ill-fated Antarctic mission.

The expedition

100 years ago this year, Shackleton's ship 'Endurance' was lost to the ice and the chances of completing the first Trans Antarctic expedition were crushed too. The ensuing epic story of heroism, leadership, survival and eventual rescue is legendary.

The expedition team will depart the UK on 25 November and are scheduled to arrive at the South Pole in mid-December. Andy hopes this trek will inspire supporters around the world to pledge their support to the #ReadingJourney appeal. You can make a donation here or text READ15 plus the amount you wish to donate (e.g. 'READ15 £5') to 70070.

Fashion and lifestyle brand Ted Baker will also support Andy McNab and the #ReadingJourney appeal. When he reaches the South Pole, Andy will unveil a Ted Baker-designed flag, crafted from fabrics collected by Ted on his numerous adventures around the globe.

Andy's story

From the day he was found in a carrier bag on the steps of Guy's Hospital, Andy McNab has lived an extraordinary life. From illiteracy in his teenage years to becoming a best-selling author, McNab knows better than most how the ability to read can impact a person's life, sharing The Reading Agency's belief that everything changes when we read. Andy says:

"I'm a textbook example of how reading can change your life: at 17, in the army, I was given my first book to read and it was the beginning of something fantastic. Reading gives you knowledge, it gives you power. I've seen first-hand the incredible work The Reading Agency does to open up reading to more people and I'm delighted to name them my charity partner as I join The Endurance 100 trek to the South Pole."

Sue Wilkinson, Chief Executive, The Reading Agency says:

"We are thrilled that Andy McNab will be raising money for our #ReadingJourney appeal as he takes on the phenomenal challenge of trekking to the South Pole. Andy remains an inspiration to all of us: his journey from teenage illiteracy to best-selling author is a reminder of the power in reading and how it's never too late to start. We'll be following him every step of the way!"

Get involved

If you would like to help someone on their reading journey, please make a donation here or text READ15 plus the amount you wish to donate (e.g. '£5') to 70070. You will be entered into a prize draw for tickets to a special event with Andy in London on 7 January.

What helped you on your #ReadingJourney? Share your story with us on Twitter using #ReadingJourney or on our Facebook page.