Ski for charity

A UK heart-disease awareness charity is looking for skiers to take to the slopes this winter as part of a fundraising event.

The Heartfeat Ski Challenge 2006 will see hundreds of skiers attempt to ski one million vertical metres over three countries in three days.

The event, run by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), promises three days of high-octane skiing in the resorts of Chamonix in France, Courmayeur in Italy, and Verbier in Switzerland.

"We track our descents with sports altimeters so no matter what your ability, everyone can contribute to the success of the weekend," said Neil Muffitt, the brainchild behind the event, who suffered a heart attack at the age of 39 and decided to help raise money for the BHF thereafter.

"The event is open to all standards of skier and our qualified instructors can help you find your ski legs. All you need is a sense of fun and adventure."

Over 200 skiers of all abilities have succeeded in raising over £200,000 to fund vital heart research across the UK since the event first took place in 2000.

The Heartfeat Challenge 2006 takes place between March 9th and 12th 2006, and costs £495 per person including flights, transfer, three-star half board accommodation, instructors and sports medical insurance.

For more information see: www.bhf.org.uk/ski or phone the BHF events team on 0800 917 6976.