PROFESSIONAL and amateur jet ski riders came together for a day of "fast and furious" racing.

The opening round of the P1 AquaX UK race series was held in Colwyn Bay across the weekend. This is the first time that Colwyn Bay had hosted the event.

The event served up two days of endurance racing. Racers had to contend with challenging conditions in the strong wind and heavy rain on the opening day.

Phil Pope from Derbyshire showed why he is a multiple UK champion with a clean sweep of victories in the Pro Enduro class.

Welsh amateur riders James Roberts and Nigel Williams impressed in the 300 class, with James recording his first overall win the AquaX championships.

Cllr Louise Emery, Conwy County Borough Council’s Cabinet Member, said: "We’re thrilled to have been part of the P1 AquaX UK series. To see the fast-growing and exciting championship in Colwyn Bay highlighted that Conwy County is the right environment to stage great events."

Supporting the race weekend were Colwyn Bay Watersports, a community interest company, and the local Jet Ski Club.

Two of its members - Lucy Barrow and Derek Turner competed in the Sprint class.

Lisa Barsby, Global Head of P1 AquaX and herself a former world champion jet skier, said: “This was our first visit to North Wales and Porth Eirias is a great venue for our UK series.

"We have enjoyed working with the local community and hope to be back next year.”