SUBMARINER Mark ‘Goody’ Goodinson is setting out for the Arctic ice next year in order to raise money for St Luke’s Hospice in Plymouth.

In April next year, Goody will undertake a five-day dog-sled journey across 150 miles of the Arctic circle.

He will be joined by counterparts from the other Armed Forces and TV gardener Charlie Dimmock – although as she has now entered Naval nickname status, when Goody was first told about Charlie’s involvement, his first question was “What ship’s he on then?”

When the flyer outlining the charity’s ‘Arctic Challenge’ crossed Goody’s desk, he knew it was the one for him. “I’ve been to the Arctic Circle before on motorbike for a holiday – it’s such a spectacular place.”

But once Goody paid a visit to the Hospice in Plymouth his priorities changed, “I realised this wasn’t just a good trip, but I could change lives.”

Goody is putting all his energies into fundraising, and can be found firebreathing, juggling and balloon-sculpting to net the necessary cash.

As part of their exploits the Arctic challengers will scatter Forget-me-not flowers across the frozen ice in memory of loved ones.

If you would like to sponsor a flower as a tribute to someone close to you, or want to sponsor Goody, contact St Luke’s Hospice on 01752 401172. www.stlukes-hospice.org.uk.