INNOVATIVE design has earned a Wye-based company Government support.

Wish I'd Thought of That (WITOT) Innovations has won a Smart Grant from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to cover up to 75% of a feasibility study into a new marine fender system.

Relaxing in a marina. WITOT's founder Michael Newton noticed that fenders cushioning boats' hulls often roll up onto the quay rather than protecting the hulls from damage, so he decided to design a new fender.

The company will use the DTI cash to investigate the viability of a modular fender system to provide protection for a variety of sailing and power craft. The fender system may also be used as a safety device.

Mr Newton said: "One of the really great things about the award is that it has enabled us to examine in depth the whole marine fender industry and related businesses. We soon realised that it was a sadly neglected segment of the industry yet it represented a substantial long term potential."

"Of course the fender market is a global one and once we have addressed the home market we will be turning our attentions to the overseas aspect. Without the Smart Grant I would, as the song goes, still be 'sitting on the dock of the bay watching the boats roll away!' '"

The Smart grant provides a package of assistance open to applications from enterprising individuals and SMEs. The scheme aims to help review the use of innovative technology, research and development. More information on Smart grants is available at www.businesslink.org.