Out on a limb over mounting costs

The sponsorship industry is constantly seeking new events to broaden its appeal, but the Diary can reveal this search has plumbed new depths of desperation.

A joint UK/South African expedition to conquer K2 is so short of funds that it is offering companies the chance to have their corporate flag photographed on the summit for a mere &£2,500.

Certainly a sight to make you proud of your company. But the K2 team must be hoping this unique photo is not wrecked by wanderlust king Mark Thatcher.

The former Prime Minister’s son is actually planning to scale Everest. But will the man who got lost in the Sahara – and allegedly couldn’t find the church on his wedding day – end up on the right mountain?