PEOPLE of all ages have taken to Coniston Water as part of powerboat records week.

Speed machines from tiny hydroplanes to big offshore boats from around the United Kingdom and beyond have made their way to the lake – known as the ‘spiritual home of water speed record breaking’ – for the annual festival all this week.

More than 60 volunteers have been on hand to help, and Coniston Powerboat Records Week chairman Alison Whalley said it would simply not be possible without them.

“The highlight for us is that we are able to help people break records – that’s what makes it special.” she said. “Because of our team the UK holds the largest number of world water speed records.”

The event runs until tomorrow and welcomes competitors of any ability and age.

“People want to help each other and that’s the spirit of record week. We strive to promote inclusivity and have competitors aged from 17 to at least 70,” said Mrs Whalley.

Peter Hart, from Windermere Motorboat Racing Club, has been ‘running’ all week in the VP2.75 class in a bid to top 100mph and beat his own record from previous years.

“When you build up to a certain speed and start to hover on the water it’s a great feeling” he said. “If I achieve a record this week then that’s great, but if not it gives me a goal for next year.”

Mr Hart’s record stands at 109.5mph and he was hoping to hit 113mph.

The fastest run on day one was achieved by teenager Ben Jelf, 18, from Kent, who set records in two classes. In the new Supercat Class he was timed at 115.28mph to establish a national record – a speed which also made him the youngest competitor ever to have gone at more than 100mph at Coniston.

“Having achieved this makes me want to go even faster,” he said. “I’m the third generation in my family to hold a record and that makes me proud.”

Television personality and mechanic Edd China travelled to Coniston to try out the Gibbs Aquada, the world’s first high speed amphibious vehicle.

“It’s a real privilege to be here,” he said. “It really marks a special occasion and I’m happy to be part of the history that keeps this event going.”