THE hum of engines has been bellowing around Coniston since Monday as powerboat enthusiasts took to the water for 47th Speed Records Week.

Dozens of entrants from around the globe were on Coniston Water, vying to go quicker than ever before in a variety of classes.

Across two lengths of a measured kilometre on the lake, 50 years on from Donald Campbell's fatal attempt to break the world water speed record aboard Bluebird K7, records were tumbling from the word go.

One of the first speed records to be broken on a crisp and clear Monday morning was in the GT30 class. 15-year-old Latvian girl, Endija Zaumane, set a new world record of 60.85 mph.

"It's very special for me and my family to be here, Coniston is the home of world water speed records," she said.

Overseeing the daredevil feats of the entrants, officer of the day Richard Solomon, of Kendal, said it was a fantastic spectacle. He has attended every single speed records week, having first been a timing observer at the event.

"It's interesting to compare and contrast the different sizes of the boats and their attitudes on the water to see what they can do," he said.

"It's a wonderful opportunity for each branch of the powerboat sport to come together. Everyone has an equal chance to achieve something they can't in the normal racing year and get their names in the record books."

Television star Edd China was among the competitors, attempting to break amphibious vehicle speed records in Gibbs Amphibians vessels.

"I'm very honoured to be here," he said. "It's a fantastic event but what's really lovely is the camaraderie – everyone wants each other to set a record – it's quite wonderful."

Peter Hart, of Windermere Motorboat Racing Club, set two records on Monday. Firstly, he registered 97.3mph in his Allison to beat to the national Unlimited Monohull class record by 6mph. He then set a world Pro Rib Sport record by averaging 78.16mph.

"It's the biggest event of the year," he said. "Everyone comes together from all forms of boating.

"There's people from all over the world and there's a massive variety – you name it and it's here.

"It's exhilarating when you're out on the water, you definitely get pumped up a bit. You're a bit nervous beforehand but once you get going it's alright, and it's a lot of fun."