ORGANISERS of a junior powerboat race in which a 13-year-old Poole boy was seriously injured have defended his safety equipment following criticism in an official report.

A safety bulletin issued by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) of the Department of Transport suggests that the helmet Ben Ridd from Canford Heath was using during the race off Portland in June was unsuitable.

Ben's Mark 10 Gecko Marine safety helmet was dislodged when his 12ft monohull collided with another race craft. It was found in the sea a short distance from the boat after the accident.

The MAIB stated that the British Standards marked helmet was only designed for the "average" size head and developed for use by the RNLI and marine emergency services - not for "high speed" powerboat racing.

The MAIB said the helmet has a scoop effect when the wearer enters the water, which could lead to serious neck injuries.

However, it admitted that the lightweight kevlar Gecko Mark 10 is the only helmet in the UK designed specifically for use in the marine environment.

They voiced concern that a helmet has not been designed with powerboat racing in mind and issued a recommendation that all helmets are checked to ensure they fit properly.

Tom Crump from the event organisers, Poole-based Wanda Offshore Training and Race Klubb, said Ben's helmet was fitted with an adjustable bladder which was inflated and checked before he started the race to ensure it fitted correctly.

"As the report states, the helmet was developed for the RNLI who have boats capable of 50 miles an hour - our boats are only capable of 25 miles an hour, which is hardly high speed," added Mr Crump.

He stressed that the helmet is approved by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).

Mr Crump said an investigation into the accident was continuing, working alongside the RYA and looking at helmet design in response to a MAIB recommendation that they carry out a risk assessment on the suitability of the recommended standard for safety helmets.

Mr Crump stressed that future powerboat racing for younger participants will be over a timed course with one boat running at a time rather than boats racing side by side.

In the accident on June 19, during a K Class powerboat race in Portland Harbour, Ashdown Technology College pupil Ben, who was co-driving the 24hp boat, suffered serious head injuries and was left paralysed, unable to talk and with limited movement.

His condition has gradually improved and Ben is now allowed home from Southampton Hospital at weekends.

The MAIB is continuing its full investigation into the cause of the accident.

Ben's father Jon, who purchased the helmet for his son, said he was awaiting a copy of the full MAIB report before making a comment.

First published: August 25