Man dies after powerboat race crash

A powerboat racer has died after his craft flipped over during a race, organisers said.

Mike Lovell, from Southampton, suffered multiple injuries in the incident in Weymouth, Dorset, on Sunday. He was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital but race organiser P1 SuperStock confirmed he died overnight.

His navigator, Dan Whapples, also from Southampton, remains in a serious but stable condition.

The pair were competing in the national powerboat racing championship in Weymouth Bay when the crash happened.

Portland Coastguard said Mr Lovell and Mr Whapples had to be rescued from the water, near Weymouth town beach and the harbour.

A spokesman for P1 SuperStock said: "Following a powerboat incident in Weymouth yesterday, Mike Lovell and Dan Whapples both sustained serious injuries and were airlifted to Southampton General Hospital.

"Overnight Mike Lovell sadly succumbed to his injuries. Dan Whapples is in a serious but stable condition.

"A further statement will be issued when more details are available. Our thoughts are with the whole powerboat community and particularly with Mike and Dan's family and friends."

Weymouth - the Olympic sailing venue - was hosting the first visit of the P1 SuperStock UK Championship to the Dorset coastal resort for the national powerboat series finale.

A report has been made to the Marine Accident Investigation Branch.