BASSINGBOURN Snowsports Club is set to have a new-look dry ski-slope in place for the start of the new skiing season in September. Members are giving up their weekends to help re-mat the club s main slope, in work which could cost up to £50,000. But for c

BASSINGBOURN Snowsports Club is set to have a new-look dry ski-slope in place for the start of the new skiing season in September.

Members are giving up their weekends to help re-mat the club's main slope, in work which could cost up to £50,000.

But for club ski instructor Sharon Nash, the work is a labour of love that began more than twenty years ago when she first started skiing.

Mrs Nash, 47, from Potton, said: "We come away exhausted but it is great fun."

The club, which is located inside Bassingbourn Barracks, has one nursery slope and one main slope. The slopes need to be re-matted at least once every eight years.

And the main slope is also being extended, to allow the club to teach more people.

The club currently has about 80 adult members and a further 80 junior members, drawn from as far afield as London and King's Lynn.

Ages of members range from three to 80, and according to member Malcolm Allanson, age should not be a barrier to enjoying snowsports.

Mr Allanson, 66, of Chaucer Road, Royston, said: "Don't be afraid to let age get in your way.

"I started at 58 and I have never had so much fun in my life as when I first put on a pair of skis."

The club caters for all levels of ability, from complete beginners to competent racers, and new members are welcome.

And for those people who may be considering learning to ski, Mrs Nash said: "It is a fun experience.

"They will learn technically how to ski, and it's also a really good way of making friends and keeping fit."

Mrs Nash's son Chris, 16, is also a qualified ski instructor at the club. He said: "It is really good fun and you can ski with your family unlike other sports. You can have loads of fun with friends as well."

Membership costs range from £75-£130 a year.

For more information about the club or to become a member, call 08450 728 293 or visit www.skibass.org.