FIVE skiers from Pendle Ski Club have been selected to become Snowsport England Dry Slope Ambassadors, which will see them represent Snowsport England at artificial slopes across the country this summer and next winter.

Victoria Gatty from Clitheroe, Josef and Declan Huppach from Barnoldswick, Robert Holmes from Nelson, and Callum Witts from Burnley – who all race for Pendle Ski Club – have all been selected for the new programme from the national governing body Snowsport England.

The programme aims to recognise the ambassadors’ skiing talents on the dry slope circuit, as well as allowing them to inspire the next generation of skiers.

The five talented skiers will perform the role alongside fifteen other talented athletes ranging from Under 16s up to Under 21s. The athletes will tour artificial slopes carrying out duties at races and competitions, including talking to younger competitors about skiing, and how hard they worked to become a ski racer.

The athletes have been picked on their performances on the dry slope ski racing circuit, and as well as recognising their contribution to the sport, the scheme will also give them the chance to represent England against the other Home Nations.

Declan Huppach said: “I am really pleased to become a Snowsport England Dry Slope Ambassador. I learnt to ski for the first time at the age of three when I attended an Open Day at Pendle Ski Club.

“I learn began lessons at age four and started racing soon after that. I have been inspired by Dave Ryding, who is proving that a dry slope skier can become one of the best alpine ski racers in the world.”

Victoria Gatty added: “I will be taking part in several races this summer where I will be fulfilling my Dry Slope Ambassador role, as well as racing. I will be talking to younger athletes and anyone who needs guidance – from course inspection to helping with ski preparation.”

Tania Barton, Snowsport England Director, said at the launch: “These young athletes will not only perform valuable logistical roles at the artificial slopes, they will also act as role models for younger skiers and hopefully inspire them to train hard on their local dry slopes and stay involved in the competitive skiing scene.”

“Snowsport England has set up this scheme to recognise the achievements of our athletes and to ensure they are part of inspiring the next generation of skiers. They will also play a huge part in growing and sustaining the buzz of UK dry slope skiing and racing.”

The Snowsport England Dry Slope Ambassadors include:

- Under 16 athletes:Lauren Vale (Chatham), Lois Jackon (Ravens, Sunderland), Charlotte Tapsell (Hemel), Oliver Weeks (Midland Ski Club), Josef Huppach (Pendle), Robert Holmes (Pendle),

- Under 18 athletes: Nicole Shering (Torquay), Millie Jackson (Ravens, Sunderland), Victoria Gatty (Pendle), Declan Huppach (Pendle), Craig Speed (Aldershot), Jonathan Bingham (Essex)

- Under 21 athletes: Jenny Davies (Aldershot), Bella Hathway (Aldershot), Helena Newboult (Midland Ski Club), Callum Witts (Pendle), Rory Farren (Ravens, Sunderland), Laurence Willows (Bromley).