Vol. 1, No. 4, December, 1998

Development Jim Davidson's scheme now depends on volunteers/helpers - see his letter accompanying this bulletin.

The ESC's Proficiency Award Scheme has met with a mixed reception from BSSF Nordic; further discussion is needed to agree on a scheme which allows for skiing on both on snow and non-snow surfaces.

1999 courses programme: a southern roller-ski course is planned for next November, and a crosscountry Nordic downhill course at Silksworth in September; plans for courses earlier in 1999 will be announced shortly.

Coaching A task force has been set up with Jane Robinson in the lead to revamp the Nordic Coaching Scheme: work starts this month.

PR/Sponsorship- The new Nordic brochure is nearing completion. Progress is being made with the ESC to sort out a Nordic component of the planned ESC Web site.

Facilities Acquisition of new equipment imminent - see below. Focus to be on locating regional Nordic centres first.

Racing Tony Hallett has joined the Committee as Racing panel chair.

A. The ESC skills course weekend was held at Lancaster on November7th to 8th; again a very successful event, thanks to David Painter's splendid organisation. Congratulations to the following seven skiers who were successfully assessed as Nordic Club Instructors: John Anderson, Tim Brooks, Roger Bunyan, Pam Curwen, Hilda Krynen, Laurence Mannion and David Painter.

B. Paddy Field, Director BSSF Nordic, was presented with the ESC Nordic Trophy - the Hovey Trophy - for services to crosscountry skiing, in Sheffield on October 17th.

C. The stock of ESC Nordic's roller-ski equipment has been greatly augmented with the acquisition of 12 pairs of roller skis, 16 pairs of boots, and 6 pairs of poles. These have been added to the existing stock, currently held in the Manchester area, and are available for hire by affiliated clubs and their members. Contact either David Painter,

Nordic Equipment Officer on 01704 893764, or Ralph White on 0160-445 9417