End of season fling

The Weardale Ski Club Ltd

A great day to finish off the season was enjoyed by 40 or 50 members. We opened early with mild intermittently sunny weather and soft spring like snow that was rather heavy. It did however improve as the day went on and as more people skied over it. All the easterly top runs were still intact and the gullies and Black Scar still superb but the lower runs were getting a bit bare except the excellent run just west of F1 tow line which still has 2 foot of snow on it.

Sadly the forecast warmer weather, rain and strong winds means that we will not be opening tomorrow and that is very likely to mark the end of a superb season with nearl 40 skiing days, a lot of them exceptionally good ones. I would like to thank all the tow operators who have worked extremely hard this season and the small number of members who have helped out with odd jobs throughout the season. It does take a huge effort to keep WSC running and with seasons like this it puts quite a strain on both our old machinery and also our old tow operators! I will be sending out email reminders later in the year about work parties and these are a great chance for those of you who have enjoyed this season to put a little back into the club. We are also hoping to train up a few more tow operators, especially those who may be free on some weekdays. If you are interested we will offer training at one or more of the work parties, however becoming a tow operator involves more than just stopping and starting the tows. Ideally you need to know how to deal with minor breakdowns, replacing hangars etc but this training will be offered alongside a more experienced tow operator.

Finally there is an "end of season bash" being organised at the Black Bull pub in Frosterley on Saturday 18 May to which all are invited. This is informal but Will, one of the snowboarders who runs the pub, will be firing up the wood burning pizza oven and there will be special treats for all who attend. Details on facebook but if you do not have access to this I will send out a reminder nearer the time. Some idea of numbers would be useful so could you either let me or Will know if you intend to come.

Steve