On 22 March 2006, a team of soldiers and officers will begin an attempt to become the first British Army expedition team to climb Mount Everest using one of its toughest and most dangerous routes.

A main team will attempt to climb the world’s highest mountain using ‘The West Ridge’, while two other teams will climb lesser routes reaching more than 6000 and 7000 metres.

Captain Jonny Taffs from 10 Army Education Centre, Tidworth, is the Environment and Culture Manager for the Development Team and will try to reach the summit of Lhakpa Ri, a peak opposite Everest’s north east ridge. A third junior team will climb the Island Peak.

Although, not actually reaching the summit, climbing the north east ridge is equally as dangerous with each team pushed to the limit of physical and mental abilities.  

Described as the ultimate non-combat training exercise, it is the culmination of three years planning and preparation.  

Captain Jonathan Taffs (Jonny)
An instructor the Army Education Centre Tidworth 

Further a field in Larkhill, Army Physical Training Instructor, Jude Humphries is the only female taking part and will join the main team in their attempt to the reach Everest peak.

If you would like to find out more about the expedition visit www.armyoneverest.com where users will be able to track the teams on their historic journey.