At first there was no snow at lower levels and this saw skiers skiing on artificial snow on lower slopes. And with limited early snowfall at higher levels, there was minimal opportunity for off-piste skiing. This led to pistes being busier than usual.

Then came too much snow, with poor visibility forcing an early end for some events.

Nevertheless, MPI was on hand for the British School Girls Races, the British School Boys Races, the Snow-Camp Alpine Challenge, the Livery Companies' Ski Championships and the Annual Inter Club Championships.

Also present at the AICC event in Alpbach was Charlie Guest, a leading contender for the British ski team for next year's Winter Olympics and now a member of the MPI sports sponsorship 'family'.

With skis scarcely dry from the 2016-17 season, plans are already being laid for next winter.

MPI attended the recent London International Snowsports Trade Exchange (Listex) event at the Hemel Hempstead Ski Centre, the first industry meeting of the new season.

Taking part in a panel discussion on the past and future of skiing, MPI MD Michael Pettifer commented on concerns following the French decision to continue to ban on British ski guiding.

He also mentioned the fears of some ski companies that Brexit may lead to difficulties in sending British people to work in European resorts and warned of impending premium increases due to higher than usual claims and the fall in the value of the pound.

PICTURE: MPI-sponsored Winter Olympics hopeful Charlie Guest (with ski) meets the Ladies Ski Ckub team at the Annual Inter Club Championships in Alpbach. On the right of the picture (without helmet) is LSC President Maude Instone.