A WATFORD father-of-three returned this week from an expedition to Antarctica.

Michael Wright, of Dellfield Close, Watford, spent several weeks in the polar region to come up with plans for a new research station on an ice shelf in Antarctica.

The structural engineer works for one of three firms shortlisted in a competition to design Halley VI, a new survey station to replace the British Antarctic Survey Station Halley, which is located on the edge of the ice continent.

He undertook the trip to Antarctica to carry out an inspection of the earmarked building site and talk to scientists.

This station has been recording meteorological and atmospheric information since the 1950's and is of world importance in identifying trends in climate change and global warming.

The first ice station Halley was constructed by the British in 1956 on the Brunt Ice Shelf and was quickly inundated with snow. Three successive stations were built although they were eventually crushed by the ice before Halley V was built.

Mr Wright, 45, said: "It feels very strange to be back in Watford, almost as if I haven't been away, yet I've been on this fantastic adventure. The trip went very well from a business point of view, but I've also been able to see some breathtaking scenery that most people don't get the chance to."

His family are happy to have him back home.

Wife Danielle said: "Tom thinks his dad is so cool. He is really excited about the fact he has gone to the Antarctic."