Thousands lined the Royal Victoria dockside over the weekend (15-17 June) to watch the world's top powerboat drivers compete for the UIM F1H2O World Championship Grand Prix of London.

The event saw the return of the sport's elite to the capital for the first time in 33 years.

Cheltenham based company, BRM Europe Ltd provided the infrastructure required to bring the world's most dramatic and spectacular inshore water sport back to the UK.

Dene Stallard, managing director of BRM Europe Ltd, said: "This was the first time BRM Ltd has staged an event of this magnitude.

"For many spectators it was the first time they have seen, up close, these amazing drivers and their boats practically flying over the water.

"Securing the return of top class powerboat racing to the capital was a real coup for BRM Europe Ltd.

"I hope the Grand Prix of London will be a catalyst for the return of powerboat racing to other inshore locations across the country. We're working hard to achieve this and have now proved how successful and popular events like this can be."

The 2018 UIM F1H2O World Championship Grand Prix of London was organised by Championship Promoter H2O Racing in close collaboration with Chinese Sports Promotion company Tian Rong Sports and broadcast live around the world.

Nicolo di San Germano, president of H2O Racing, the promoter of the UIM F1H2O World Championship, said: "The racing in Royal Victoria Dock was breathtaking. The straight circuit with tight turns at either end tested the most experienced of our drivers. We will definitely be back to London "

Dr. Raffaele Chiulli, president of UIM, powerboat racing's world governing body, said: "We do consider the UK and London as a focal point of developing our sport and we have seen today the drivers have enjoyed the circuit, so it definitely looks like we will be back next year."

The event, which was based at the ExCeL Centre on the North Quay of the dock, saw 19 of the world's best drivers, from 12 countries, competing at over 140 mph in single-seater catamarans.

Following the hour long, hotly contested race Sweden's Erik Stark from the Maverick F1 team secured top spot on the podium. It was Stark's second career F1 victory.

Mr Stark said: "Starting in pole I felt I had the race in control. The water is very strong you have to be focused all the time, but to be racing here is wonderful. This is where we should be. The circuit is narrow but this is F1. It should be challenging, for me it was never a problem."

France's Phillipe Chiappe from CTIC F1 Sz China Team took second place with fellow Frenchman Peter Morin, claiming his first career podium spot, in third.

The Grand Prix of London was the second race of 2018's World Championship Series. Phillippe Chiappe currently leads the F1H2O World Championship with six races to go.

The teams will now head to Evian in France for the next round of the World Championship in 11 days time.