This article is more than 1 year old

This article is more than 1 year old

A British tourist has died while snowboarding in Andorra.

The 59-year-old man lost control and hit a tree, the Grandvalira ski resort said. He was believed to have been alone at the time and had a cardiac arrest.

Emergency rescue teams tried to help the man and moved him to the bottom of the slope, the resort said, adding: “But despite all efforts to revive him, he died minutes later.”

The incident happened on the Avet slope, a black run recommended for experienced skiers. Andorran police were investigating possible causes.

A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokesman said: “Our staff are supporting the family of a British man following his death in Andorra and are in contact with the local authorities.”

Tim Fawke, chief executive of Snowsport England, said: “We were extremely sorry to hear about the death of a British tourist in Andorra and our thoughts are with his family and friends. Snowsports are hugely popular and, while some risk is involved, serious accidents are extremely rare.”

Fawke added: “The risk of injury is low, but accidents happen. While we can’t comment on this particular case, it is important to ensure you have the correct safety equipment, know your limitations and seek professional coaching if needed.”