Deal to save Hillend dry ski slope backed

More than 27,000 people have joined an internet campaign to save the ski slope

The future of the UK's largest dry ski slope looks more assured after a rescue package to save it was agreed.

A special meeting of Midlothian Council, which owns the loss-making Midlothian Snowsports Centre, backed the plan.

It would see £600,000 of investment from SportScotland and involve the sale of green belt land near the site to developers.

The centre, known as Hillend ski slope, is losing half a million pounds a year.

About 30 Olympians, including Alain Baxter and Finlay Mickel, have trained on its artificial slopes over the years.

The centre has been the focus of an internet campaign, supported by more than 27,000 people.

A management shake-up has already made savings, and the council now hopes the rescue deal could see Hillend break even within two years.