A FILM-MAKER who famously survived plummeting temperatures of -70 degrees on the treacherous Mount Everest visited a high school to inspire the next generation of adventurers.

Matt Dickenson, an award-winning director and cameraman, stopped off at Harwich and Dovercourt High School to share tales with the youngsters.

He talked with the school’s year 7 pupils about his time with National Geographic TV, Discovery Channel and the BBC, where he has worked alongside the biggest names in the world of adventure, including Bear Grylls.

In 1996, Dickenson famously completed a successful ascent of Mount Everest’s notorious North Face, one of the most demanding climbs on the world’s highest peak.

Amid the worst weather conditions on record, Dickinson faced hurricane-force winds and unthinkably cold temperatures.

Eight people died on the mountain that day.

Dickenson became one of the first British film-makers to shoot on the summit and return alive, with the resultant film, Summit Fever, viewed by millions of people worldwide.

The 1996 Everest disaster later inspired multiple written accounts and feature films.

Andrew Dace, library manager at the school, said: “The pupils were really thrilled to meet Matt and listened intently to his tales as an adventurer.

“They were in wonder at the perils he has faced.

“There was a keen interest in his books and hopefully he has inspired pupils not only to read, but to become the next generation of film-makers and explorers.

“He told pupils he had to endure temperatures of -72 degrees celcius, cold enough to freeze hot tea and to cause him to lose the use of two fingers due to frostbite.

“One of his team was airlifted to hospital suffering from altitude sickness.”

Dickenson took the children on an audio and visual tour, taking in avalanches, icebergs and volcanoes.

The session included study of his writing and readings from his books, which include accounts of his time on Everest.

Mr Dace added: “He has also visited Antarctica, Greenland and the top of the highest live volcano in the world.

“While at the school He encouraged pupils to read more and to think about joining a club or taking part in an activity.”