Denbigh man tells of life in Antarctica in fascinating talk

Mr Horton, a former construction worker turned explorer, recounted his extraordinary experiences in the icy wilderness during a recent talk at the Oriel Hotel, St Asaph.

His presentation was well received by club members and guests, who were eager to learn about Mr Horton’s life from November 1975 to March 1978 in Antarctica.

The talk included a brief history of Antarctic exploration, detailing the adventures of notable figures such as R.F. Scott and Ernest Shackleton, and ended with an account of Mr Horton’s remarkable journey.

Colin Horton (Image: Supplied) Aged just 14, Mr Horton had become an apprentice joiner before embarking on a career in construction.

In 1975, after returning from a trip to Africa, he spotted a newspaper advertisement in the News of the World seeking workers for Antarctica.

Intrigued, Mr Horton applied, was interviewed, and subsequently offered the job, which came with a two-and-a-half-year contract, no holidays, and the stipulation of being on call 24 hours a day.

He sailed from Southampton on October 1, 1975, and, after picking up equipment in Port Stanley in the Falkland Islands, arrived at his freezing destination.

His main task was as a centre for activities for field trips to update maps and reference points.

As part of the building team, he helped construct a new research facility, along with accommodation and workshops.

Living in Antarctica for the entirety of his two-and-a-half-year contract was a profoundly isolating experience.

Mr Horton and three others endured a seven-month winter, with only 16 other staff members to share the vast, desolate land.

(Image: Supplied) His stories of daily life in such an extreme environment were fascinating, from the predominantly tinned food supplies to the unique method of recreation they devised.

Antarctica also proved to be a place of honour for Mr Horton.

In 1978, the UK Antarctic Place-Names Committee named a glacier after him – Horton Glacier.

He was also awarded a Polar Medal, although his name does not appear on court records as he was travelling in South America when the medal was presented.

The next meeting of the Denbigh and District Probus Club will take place on Monday, February 3, 2025, with Dr Paul Evans discussing Thomas Pennant’s rambles in the Vale of Clwyd.

The club warmly welcomes new members, and for further information, interested parties can go online or email stevetootell@gmail.com.