SOUTHAMPTON'S dry ski slope reopens today - two months after arsonists set it alight and caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

A 50-metre stretch of the slope was destroyed and safety barriers and a wooden pathway were destroyed in the blaze.

Teenagers were believed to be responsible for the fire at Southampton Sports Centre in Bassett, which broke out in the early hours of Thursday, August 15.

Detectives immediately began hunting a group of youths who were caught on CCTV at the site.

Their pictures were printed in the Daily Echo in a bid to help find the culprits.

Members of the public are understood to have helped in identifying the group, by calling Southampton Central CID and the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline.

Six youths, aged between 13 and 17, were later arrested and quizzed at stations across the city, but no charges were brought.

Operators of the Alpine Centre Filarinski's said there are still a number of repairs to be carried out but the slope is safe to be reopened.

Managing director Steve Filary said: "This mindless act of vandalism was a particular blow for us as we'd only recently taken over the running of the centre. But we were determined to keep this excellent facility going and have been keeping our customers updated on progress. We are taking bookings for our ski and snowboarding sessions and we are proud to introduce our new ringos."

Southampton City Council's Cabinet member for leisure and tourism, Councillor Derek Burke, said: "We have worked hard to ensure that the partnership with Filarinski's worked and the ski centre remained open, so it was particularly upsetting to have to close it for repair. It is a credit to Filarinski's, our staff and the contractors that it is operational so quickly."

Police investigating the blaze at the ski slope have urged witnesses to get in touch.

Inspector Gary Cooper said: "Clearly people did see what went on. If there are witnesses out there, can they please come forward? Without their help we won't be able to charge anyone. Anyone who contacts us with information will be treated in the strictest confidence."

Witnesses should contact Inspector Cooper, of Southampton police, on 0845 0454545.