Chatham’s George Elmore heads into the first round of the British National Championship this weekend.

The reigning 2024 British F4 Circuit Powerboat Association (CPA) champion is in action on Sunday and Monday at Oulton Broad in Lowestoft, Suffolk.

Elmore, who races for the Kingfisher Fire and Security Powerboat Race Team, won the title in his debut season of racing the class - but not without incident.

“I unfortunately had an accident and crashed out at the end of last season,” he recalled.

“I was fine and came out of the incident without injury, although the boat needed extensive repairs.

“Ian Blacker (the team owner) has completed the boat rebuild over the winter months and we’re all really pleased with it.

“In recent weeks we’ve had some very successful test weekends and the boat is now once again all set up, looking good and performing well.

“We think we’re now ready to give it another go and defend our championship. I gained valuable experience last season and won at this first round in Lowestoft last year.

“We’re expecting the F4 racing to be really competitive this year with some returning drivers and new boats all hoping to be out in the front.

“I’m going to do what I can and hopefully put the Kingfisher Team in the best position possible to keep hold of the title for another year.”