Les Parson, the coach to Canadian Olympic cross-country ski champion Beckie Scott, will be coming to London on Saturday 25th August to lead a special cross-country ski rollerski masterclass in Hyde Park.

Known in Canada as 'Mr Energy', Les is passionate about the sport of cross-country skiing, and keen to spread the word in this country. He will lead two sessions - one for seniors and one for juniors, and will give a talk afterwards for all to attend.

This is a great chance for a wide range of people to try the sport of cross-country skiing, which can be learnt and practiced in the UK on rollerskis (what cross-country skiers use to train on when there's no snow). Particularly welcome are juniors and athletes from the world of cross-country running, rowing, canoeing, mountain biking and other endurance sports. There are various pathways in the UK for learning and developing cross-country skiing as a sport. There is a growing number of qualified coaches, clubs and national racing and training events.

Entry to the class will be only £15 (£5 for juniors and students), with equipment provided by the Rollerski Co (the UK's only commercial rollerski / cross-country ski school). All proceeds from the sessions will go to The Woodland Trust. Entry to the talk is free, but donations to The Woodland Trust are welcome.

Les is currently coach to Alex Harvey of Canada, one of the most promising young skiers in the world, and a mentor to Scottish junior cross-country skier and rising star, Alastair Duncan, who is currently living and training in Canada.

For more information and to book a place on the course, go to www.rollerski.co.uk/nr045.html

You can contact Iain Ballentine, course organiser, on 07968 286129.