The British Ski and Board show, which has gradually grown in attendance since 2000, will mark its 20th birthday later this year at the the UK’s largest exhibition centre, the NEC, with an event that organisers promise will be bigger and better than ever before.

Swapping Birmingham from its usual Manchester home, Global Snow Events, which is running the show, has pledged to bring “the snow and mountains to the NEC” and provide “a more innovative and memorable day for winter sports fans”.

The event, which runs from 31 October to 2 November 2008, will include International Big Air Freestyle Demos, Best of British Quarter Pipe Competitions, a tuition slope, equipment workshops, boot-fitting clinics, mountain living, fit to ski area and club lounges.

Cinemas, fashions and an informal Alpine restaurant add to the attractions, as well as a chance to meet ski and snowboard world and Olympic champions from across the globe.

The show is also a big draw for the winter sports industry, attracting tour operators, independent chalet owners, specialist retailers, international resorts and tourist boards.

“Since 2000, we have seen attendance increase from 10,500 to 20,000 high-quality visitors,” said Global Snow Events director Karena Cooper. “To maintain this momentum, the show is evolving in presentation and format.

“We have decided to concentrate on Birmingham’s NEC, because it has a hugely flexible space for all our needs,” she continued. “It is also ideally located for our visitors from across the country and the perfect venue for making our 20th event a memorable one for exhibitors and visitors alike.

“Research studies also reveal that many of our show organisers are already frequent visitors to The NEC.”

For more information, visit www.globalsnowshows.co.uk