Skiers flock to slopes after first snowfall

HUNDREDS of people flocked to Scotland’s ski resorts yesterday as the first substantial fall of snow got the winter season of sport off to a strong start.

Up to 18 inches of snow was reported at the Lecht in the Cairngorms where, by mid-morning, 150 people had taken to the slopes.

More skiers and snowboarders headed to Cairngorm Mountain to take advantage of four inches of fresh powder.

While other parts of the country, including Edinburgh, basked in bright winter sunshine, skies were grey over both resorts and people visiting the Lecht were urged to watch for ice on access routes.

At Cairngorm, a spokesman said: “It’s a bit overcast and we’re getting the odd snow shower, which we weren’t expecting. Visibility is reasonable for skiing, but it’s not great for sightseeing.”

None of Scotland’s three other resorts opened yesterday, but with more snow forecast for Scotland tonight, Glencoe said it could open by the middle of the week after the completion of maintenance work.

Six hours worth of snow is forecast tonight and temperatures are set to plunge to -8C (18F), making Scotland colder than Iceland.

Elderly people were advised to stay indoors as in Arctic windchill sets in.