An explorer who flew solo over the North Pole in an open cockpit aeroplane - facing everything from frostbite to engine failure - is to share his journey with the people of Bermuda tonight.

At a press conference held yesterday at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) Gustavus McLeod, an African American, said that the "experience was life changing".

He said there were times throughout the journey where he faced agony - where all he wanted to do was die. But through it all, the other-worldly beauty of the North Pole drove him on.

"The air (was) so clear; there was a plane travelling 35,000 feet in the air and you could see the trail as clear as day," said Mr. McLeod. "(There were) mountains of ice which fell vertically in the water."

A former agent with the Central Intelligence Agency, Mr. McLeod has a Master's degree in chemical engineering. When asked why he would take on such an undertaking, he responded: "Everyone has to define themselves.

"Flying is my passion. Modern aviation has taken some of the magic out of it."

Most of his six years with the CIA were spent undercover. After leaving the agency Mr. Mcleod discovered that flying was his 'first and true love'.

He was joined at the conference by Lovitta Foggo, Programmes Manager for BUEI who said that Mr. McLeod was chosen after being recommended by the National Geographic Society.

"This is a tremendous coup for the Institute. Mr. McLeod is a highly sought after speaker who is sure to entertain and inform the entire family," she said.

Wendy Tucker, Honorary Trustee at BUEI added: "We are delighted to have secured Mr. McLeod to speak at BUEI and are looking forward to hearing about his exciting adventures."

She added: "I think the public will be entertained."

Up next for Mr. McLeod are plans to travel around the world in a vintage plane. He will also present some slides which were taken over his travels to the North Pole.

The first of two lectures begins tonight at 7 p.m. at BUEI, with doors opening at 6.30.

The second lecture is tomorrow.

Tickets are still available for both lectures, but the public is encouraged to get their tickets as soon as possible.