A ski instructor in Kendal has received national recognition for four decades of service to the sport.

Back in 1984, John Lowther decided that the south Cumbrian town needed an artificial ski slope and so formed Kendal Ski Club with a number of friends.

This started with 200 members, with the original slope and lodge built over that summer.

Now, 40 years on, John’s passion for snow sports has been recognised and rewarded after being invited to attend the AGM of Snowsport England, the National Authority for skiing and snowboarding, at the snow dome in Manchester. 

John (left) celebrating his award winJohn (left) celebrating his award win (Image: Karen Wright)

There he was presented with the National Chair’s Annual Award for Long Service to the sport of skiing.

Read more: Kendal sports club honours departing chairman with trophy | The Westmorland Gazette

This was only made possible thanks to a fortunate case of happenstance involving a big event on the local calendar.

The ex-Head Coach of the English Ski Council John Shedden saw a documentary - ‘Dry Slope Dreams’, produced by Karen Wright and Pixel Cut Media - at last November's Kendal Mountain Festival.

The film tells the story of how Kendal Snowsports Club came to be and how John, as Founder Chairman, had to borrow £40,000 from the bank, putting up his house as surety and asking the bank manager to 'not tell his wife'.

Having seen the film, Mr Shedden wrote to the National Chairman to recommend John be recognised for his commitment, dedication and hard work, which has helped the local sports scene evolve and brought enjoyment to thousands of adults and children who have, and continue to, enjoy the Kendal slope. 

John announced earlier this year that he was leaving the club after four decadesJohn announced earlier this year that he was leaving the club after four decades (Image: Karen Wright)

At the presentation, John paid tribute to all members past and present, who not only started the club, but who have made it grow into the place it is today.

When receiving his award, he stated: “I can do some of their amazing tricks on skis, but not deliberately."

The award is even more meaningful after John announced in March this year that, after 40 years of instructing and having reached the age of 88, he would be retiring. 

Kendal Snowsports Club continues to thrive thanks to his legacy, and is open from September to May each year.