The Royal Marines team, led by Rhu man Major Jon Clare, have skied 1,664 km from Porsangermoen, in Northern Norway, down to the southern port city of Stavanger.

They completed the distance in just under two months with conditions ranging from blizzards to bright sunshine and temperatures between minus 20c and 10c.

But despite arriving in Stavanger, there is no time to rest as they launch straight into the next phase – a 1,664 nautical-mile sail from Norway to Cadiz, in Spain.

Lance Corporal Matt Robb, 27, representing Faslane-based 43 Commando on the challenge, told the Advertiser: “There were times when we felt small and alone in the wilderness. But the fact this event will only grow in coming weeks and months drove us on and, by the time we get to London, thousands of marines will have joined us along the way, all of us determined to succeed.

“The people of Norway have been supportive in this first stage. As Royal Marines we undergo our cold weather training here and so have a close affiliation with the country and we cannot thank them enough for their hospitality throughout our travels.” Arriving in Stavanger the core six commandos met colleagues onboard a 67ft yacht that will now sail 1,664 nautical miles south through the English Channel and the Bay of Biscay to Cadiz, in Spain.

The Royal Marines Corps was formed in 1664 and this year marks the 350th anniversary of that event.

To commemorate the historic occasion, the challenge was devised by Major Jon Clare and Lt Col Gary Green, that would test Royal Marines both physically, and mentally, and display the true commando spirit and determination to succeed.

The Royal Marines 1664 Challenge was the result – an event that covers roughly 4,136 miles (6,656 kms) by ski, sail, cycle, canoe and then by foot.

By the time the Royal Marines 1664 Challenge concludes with a marathon around London in July, more than 4,200 commandos will have taken part.

As well as celebrating the Corps’ 350th anniversary, the Royal Marines 1664 Challenge is hoping to raise £500,000 for the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund (RMCTF) the overarching Royal Marines charity.

More information about the challenge can be found at www.1664challenge.co.uk with regular updates being posted at www.facebook.com/rm1664challenge.