British skiers enter cycle event

Alain Baxter competing in a World Cup slalom

Britain's top skiers are swapping their skis for cycles to take part in a 81-mile road race in Scotland.

Alain and Noel Baxter, as well as Finlay Mickel and Andrew Noble are part of a 15-strong ski team racing in the Etape Caledonia on 18 May.

The skiers will use the race as part of their summer training.

Alain Baxter said: "Cycling is excellent cross training for skiing and cycling around the Highlands will provide a genuine challenge."

The Etape Caledonia around Perthshire is Britain's only closed road cycle event and more than 2000 cyclists are expected to compete, including Mark Beaumont, who recently broke the record for cycling around the world.

Britain's top downhiller Mickel and technical specialists Noel Baxter and Noble will use the race to improve their fitness as they are all recovering from serious leg injuries.

Noble added: "There's a great competitive spirit brewing among the ski team.

"Everyone's looking forward to it and it will be a great way to kick start the summer training programme."