Call for more watercraft controls

The accident happened between the piers as sunbathers looked on

A safety group is calling for more controls on the use of watercraft after an accident off the Sussex coast.

A London man, in his 30s, needed stitches when his water bike was in collision with a jet boat, and a speed boat between Brighton piers.

Two people on the anchored speed boat received minor injuries.

Peter Cornall of the National Water Safety Forum said at present people could go on the water without a driving licence or compulsory insurance.

He said: "Currently there are very few regulations controlling the use of jet skis. If you have the money you can go and buy one tomorrow, and you currently don't require a driving licence, boat registration or compulsory insurance.

"What we would like to see is more controls so that it's not as easy for people to do that."

'Difficult to enforce'

The accident off the coast of Brighton, on Saturday, prompted a warning from the coastguard about the dangers of powered crafts.

"Due to the high speeds capable by these craft, accidents can and do happen very quickly," said a spokesman.

Local byelaws limit the use of watercraft off the coast East Sussex to specific channels or areas.

Ron Burgoyne, of Eastbourne Personal Watercraft Association, said: "It would be very nice [to have more controls] but it would be very difficult to enforce.

"That's why it is sensible for local clubs to start up. Most of the resorts have a club working in conjunction with local councils to control everything."