The organisation said it currently has seven TDs and three international Para-biathlon referees, but wants to have a better female representation among the officials and boost the overall number.

Virtual sessions took place on October 24 and 31 and provided an opportunity to learn more about the requirements of Para Nordic skiing and how to get involved.

Elke Gundermann of World Para Nordic Skiing said: "In Para Nordic skiing, we work with TDs and biathlon referees that hold either a FIS [International Ski Federation] or IBU [International Biathlon Union] license, who then come to us and are trained further for the specifics of Para Nordic skiing.

"Therefore our pool of people is quite limited.

"There were the current active officials, national TDs, chief of competitions of the upcoming planned races and individuals who we know have an interest in becoming active World Para Nordic Skiing TDs or biathlon international referees."

Led by Len Apedaile, head of technical control and officiating, each webinar lasted two to three hours with 40 people taking part.

World Para Nordic Skiing said the sessions also gave a review of the 2019-2020 season, the latest rule changes and updates on the new campaign, including the current status of major races given the coronavirus pandemic.

These sessions are traditionally held every year before the start of the season.

The new World Para Nordic Skiing season is set to begin on January 30, with cross-country and biathlon World Cup races in Östersund in Sweden.