Resorts ask locals not to go skiing

TWO popular ski resorts in the French Alps have asked local residents not to use the slopes this week - to preserve what little snow there is for paying holidaymakers.

The Savoie village of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, which is home to Val Thorens and Les Ménuires resorts, wants locals to avoid skiing from today, December 27, until January 2.

As a result of the mild winter, there is just 25cm of snow at 1,850m at Les Ménuires and 50cm on the upper slopes. Val Thorens has between 45cm and 90cm of snow.

Local mayor André Plaisance said: "We want to offer our loyal customers the best-quality skiing experience, while looking after their safety on the slopes. We have no choice but to take measures to restrict access."

A spokesperson for Val Thorens resort said the guidance was "just a recommendation", adding: "We have many customers who come from afar and we want them to be satisfied."

The two resorts are part of the 3 Vallées - one of the world's biggest ski domains - which includes other popular resorts such as Courchevel and Méribel.