TWO SKIERS SNUGGLE UP IN A SNOW HOLE ON THE LEMMING RIDGE, LOOKING OUT 'OVER THE BACK', AT THE NEVIS RANGE SKI CENTRE, HIGHLAND. PIC: P.TOMKINS
Single people who have never skied or boarded before are being invited to a special leartn-to-ski day at Nevis Range Ski resort on Aonach mor near Fort William in Scotland this Monday.
The St Valentines day event is intended not only to introduce never-evers to snow sports but also up their chances of falling in love. It's scientifically proven to work in fact.
"The idea of excitement/fear being related to developing emotional attachments or love has been about for a long time. The classic studies in this area showed that a young woman became twice as attractive to men under conditions that we might now describe as being 'extreme sports' - they were on rope bridges." Said Dr Niall G MacFarlane of Glasgow University.
"So you might say that the excitement of skiing - whether that means a novice on a nursery slope or an experienced skier going off piste - has the potential to make us more attractive to possible suitors; while more sedate activities could re-inforce 'that loving feeling' in established relationships."
The Nevis range package includes lift ticket, ski rental and tuition for £45. But there's more. The morning lesson is followed by a complimentary Valentine's day lunch in the Snowgoose restaurant and bar. The afternoon is then left free for couples to continue to play around on the slopes and at the end of the day, a mug of hot chocolate will be waiting for them in the bar.
But Davie Austin, head of the resort's Snowsports School warned romantic newbies noit to get too excited,
"Singles should remember that clothing should be warm and waterproof, rather than slinky or suggestive. After all, the lesson will be taking place in a snowy mountain environment!"
As an added bonus Nevis Range is about to launch its wedding package in the spring of 2011, so any couples who meet on the slopes will find themselves in a strong position to negotiate a great deal.