SOME Brits are guaranteed a white Christmas but they'll have to go to work after having their mince pies. British Antarctic Survey staff on the polar continent will be making the most of the 24 hours of daylight they get on the big day. Nearly 300 researchers, engineers, crew, and support staff are spread on bases across the frozen continent.
Aurelia Reichardt is the leader of Rothera Research Station which is found on the frozen Adelaide Island. She said the staff there continue to celebrate the important tradition of Christmas and will eat mince pies like if they were at home. Aurelia said: "Working in Antarctica can be isolating, away from family and life at home, so having a festive atmosphere on station helps people feel connected.
"It also helps us build a stronger community by sharing and exchanging traditions. "Celebrations and switching off from the everyday of work life here on station does wonders for everyone’s mental well being.” Some 150 people will come together to celebrate Christmas at Rothera and enjoy Christmas movies, mince pie making, and gingerbread decorating.
There will also be hot competition in the frozen desert for the annual Christmas Door Competition. Staff will fashion wreaths from recycled rubbish, and origami stars and penguins are made out of old paper to decorate the doors. But, some will have to continue their normal work - even on the special day.
A meteorological balloon will be launched, marine divers will head into the bay to collect.
