In its 2003 Snowsports Analysis, the Ski Club of Great Britain has said the total snowsports market has grown by 2.5 per cent this year.

This is a slowdown in growth however, following a 5 per cent rise between 2000/1 and 2001/2.

It claims that despite the Iraq war and fears over travelling to the US, the market is now estimated at 1.2 million passengers.

The number of passengers travelling independently, rather than through a tour operator, has also risen to 235,000 from 210,000 in 2001/2.

The increase in the number of independent travellers is largely due to the rise of the low-cost airlines, says the report, as well as increased use of the internet.

It does not make any predictions for 2003/4, however, saying: "Whether or not we will see the total snowsports market increase again in 2003/4 will depend on several factors including snow conditions throughout the season, any major economic changes and continued media coverage for snowsports in the UK."