There has never been a better time to get into cross-country skiing The last couple of years has seen the establishment of two new ski clubs, and other initiatives are making it far easier to get involved in this type of skiing, for recreation or sport.

The Midland Nordic Ski Club has been set up, which is based at the Tamworth Snowdome. The Snowdome offers several Cross-Country ski sessions a week on real snow, and is the only such facility in the country. It has attracted wide interest, with skiers from across the country coming along and even taking part in sprint races.

Another initiative is The Rollerski Co, which offers 'Rollerski' sessions in London's parks and in Windsor. They do several lessons and courses a week, and have been bringing this form of Cross-Country Ski Training to a whole new audience.

These initiatives have increased interest in the sport, and have been bringing new members to the country's ski clubs. The London Region Nordic Ski Club this year celebrates its 25th anniversary, and introduces for the first time a 5 race Rollerski Series. Taking place throughout the summer, this series compliments their Rollerski courses and tours.

Another exciting development is the recent establishment of the Wessex Biathlon & Nordic Ski Club. This plans to be England's first civilian biathlon club, and comes hot on the heels of Scotland's successful Cairngorm Biathlon and Nordic Ski Club, which was set up last year.

Other clubs yet to announce their summer schedules include the ever popular Manchester and Yorkshire Dales Ski Clubs, which will again be running Rollerski tours and courses.

So wherever you live in the UK, and whatever your interest in skiing - be it touring, racing or just improving your technique over the summer - there should be something to suit everyone.

The following websites are well worth a visit:
The Tamworth Snowdome
The Rollerski classes and courses in London, also race information
Wessex Biathlon & Nordic Ski Club
London Regn. Nordic Ski Club