OLYMPIC freestyle skier Emma Lonsdale is to open a new viewing gallery at Kendal Snowsports Club on Sunday (March 30).

The viewing gallery is for spectators to watch their friends and families on the slope and inspire more people to take up skiing or snowboarding.

It will be opened as part of the club’s 30th anniversary and has been funded by £50,000 secured from Sport England’s ‘Inspired Facilities’ Fund together with a similar amount from the members’ own funds.

Club chairman Peter Townley said: “People have always told us they have enjoyed the experience on the slope at Kendal but now they can enjoy facilities off the slope as well.

“We really hope people will come down to the opening and see the new facility and also watch the club members take part in their annual race day. It is also a great opportunity for people to meet and congratulate Emma on her performance at the Sochi Winter Olympics.”

Emma, who lives in Settle, has been a member of the club since she put on her first pair of skis aged two.

Kendal Snowsports Club is one of 16 hub sites Snowsport England is working with to get more people skiing and snowboarding in England.

Jan Doyle, Head of Development at Snowsport England, said “This is great news for the people of Kendal and surrounding area having such a great facility on their doorstep.

“The club is run by a great team of volunteers who not only give so many people the opportunity to take part in the sport but have shown how a slope in England and their coaches can help progress an athlete through from grassroots to Olympic level.”