YOUNG people have been taking the opportunity to learn skiing in the Wee County over the winter break.

Firpark Ski Centre in Tillicoultry has been busy welcoming children for both its holiday ski schools and for lessons for P7 pupils.

The council-run facility has opened up the artificial slope after Christmas with the New Year Ski School running until January 6 in what has been proving a popular programme.

Scores of children have been taking the opportunity to enjoy a session at Firpark since December 28 with the P7 programme seeking to ensure everybody in the age group gets a chance.

Firpark has had a busy season in the lead up as well and Cllr Graham Lindsay, spokesperson for education, spoke about the importance of the programme before Christmas.

He said: “It is excellent to see all P7 pupils across the area get the opportunity to try skiing.

“The ski instructors and the ski technicians love to see the energy and enthusiasm from the youngsters and the success and happiness they have helped to create for each class.

“The feedback from school staff and pupils is wonderful to hear – particularly from those who were new to it and perhaps felt a bit nervous.

“For some, it may be the start of a lifelong love of the sports and the outdoors.”