For many people, a fun-run or a long walk are great ways to combine keeping fit with raising funds for charity. Fewer people, however, would entertain a 700mile ski journey to one of the most inhospitable places on earth - the South Pole.

Well that's exactly the challenge that 27 year old Optician, Cameron Hudson will be taking on later this year. Cameron is aiming to raise a staggering quarter of a million pounds from his Antarctic adventure, to support the work of Guide Dogs for the Blind, the International Glaucoma Association (IGA) and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB). But the challenge doesn't stop here. He also aims to make British Polar history by carrying out pioneering research into the effects of the 24hour daylight during the Polar summer on vision, which may help in the development of new treatments for several common visual disorders.

Sponsored by Optical Express, the expedition is proving to be big news in the optical community and Cameron is hoping to provide some invaluable research information. Spokesperson for Optical Express, Clare Byatt, said, "We are delighted to support Cameron in this expedition and help raise awareness of the importance of eye exams and good vision while carrying out research into human vision. We are also helping raise a lot of money for some great charities, which is definitely an added bonus."

In preparation for his arduous mission, Cameron has already undergone extensive training in the Arctic earlier this year and said: "Since becoming an Optometrist in 2001, I have witnessed the impact that visual impairment can have on the quality of life of those affected."

"By making this journey, I hope to raise public awareness of the importance of eye health examinations in helping to prevent many of the common causes of visual impairment. The money raised will make a meaningful and significant contribution to the thousands of people in the UK with visual disorders."

"I am appealing to people to support this project simply by having their eyes examined at their local branch of Optical Express any time in November, December or January. Following your sight test you will receive an official expedition badge and £1 of your sight test fee will be donated to the nominated charities."

Facing temperatures as low as -30^oC, Cameron expects the trek, which he starts in November, to take around 60 days.