Charles and Camilla slope off for Christmas card snap

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall have chosen a relaxed photograph of themselves skiing at Balmoral for their 2010 Christmas card.

The image from their private collection was taken at the Queen's estate in Aberdeenshire after heavy snowfall.

The couple decided to try cross-country skiing during their stay - with the prince dressed in full tweed, from his cap and jacket down to his plus fours.

The official card will be sent to friends, supporters and volunteers.

Wedding snaps

Charles has been a regular visitor to the Swiss resort of Klosters for many years and is an experienced downhill and cross-country skier.

Camilla is known to prefer walking, only trying cross-country skiing for the first time last winter.

She wore a hat and large scarf with a jacket similar to her husband's.

Last year the couple chose a picture from Royal Ascot. In 2008 they were shown holding umbrellas and laughing on the deck of the St Mawes to Falmouth ferry in Cornwall and in 2007 they chose an image from a public engagement.

The previous two years involved weddings: In 2006 they picked a photo from the wedding of the duchess's daughter, Laura Parker Bowles, and in 2005 it was a family photo from their own wedding.