Image: Work is due for completion in September

Work has now begun on a £600,000 programme of improvements at Scotland's Midlothian Snowsports Centre in order to safeguard the long-term future of the facility.

Funding from the scheme has been secured through sportscotland and a cash injection from the Boyd Anderson Trust, with work to include the creation of a new 210m (689ft) slope.

An extension and overhaul of the existing nursery slopes, 240m (787ft) of new snowtubing runs and the installation of two travellator uplift systems are also included in the project.

Facility owner and operator Midlothian Council is working with a team of designers on the project, which will improve the experience for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.

Council leader Lisa Beattie said: "These exciting improvements for Midlothian Snowsports Centre at Hillend will offer something for everyone."

sportscotland chief executive Stewart Harris added: "Our partnership with Midlothian Council has made it possible to put long term plans in place to ensure the sustainability of the centre."

Details: www.midlothian.gov.uk