JET skis and powerboats come to Minehead next weekend for two days of high-speed racing.

More than 40 jet ski riders from seven countries will be competing for UK and European P1 AquaX titles.

And inflatable catamarans racing at up to 70 mph will compete in rounds six and seven of the RYA P750 ThunderCat Racing British Championship.

The racing is a key part of the Minehead Summer Festival and has come about through a partnership between the Minehead Events Group, Minehead Coastal Communities Team, ThunderCat powerboats and P1 AquaX.

It is hoped the weekend will become an annual event to entertain residents and attract visitors to the town, raise its profile and boost the local economy.

The double bill of fast and furious jet ski and powerboat racing will be free to watch and Minehead’s Mayor Cllr Norman Hercock said: “I’m sure all the sporting action that will take place on Minehead seafront will deliver a fun-packed weekend for both local residents and holidaymakers alike.”

P1 AquaX stages events in the USA, Malaysia and Europe, and its global head, former world champion jet skier Lisa Barsby, said: “Our events take place on the sea with simple, wide-open race courses that give riders the chance to open up their throttles and enjoy the full performance of the craft.

“The racing includes both sprint and endurance classes, lasting about ten minutes and 30 minutes respectively, with the racers reaching speeds of up to 80mph.”

The jet skiers’ European tour series began on France’s Mediterranean coast in May, visited Normandy last month, and after Minehead, goes to Port Balis near Barcelona for the final round in October.

The UK Championship has raced in Torquay and Porthcawl this summer and Minehead is hosting the finale.