David was CEO of a chemical manufacturing business but his passion is exploration. He is globally recognised for his world records and innovations in mountaineering, polar exploration, aviation and sailing, and has supported many scientific expeditions in polar regions. David founded the Youth Adventure Trust in 1992 to enable disadvantaged young people to participate in expeditions, and Wicked Weather Watch in 2005 to educate schoolchildren about climate change. He is a retired trustee of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and of St John Ambulance.