BROTHERS Mel and Andrew Streek, from Goudhurst, will launch their second Honda Formula Four-stroke offshore powerboat campaign in May. Last year's series, which was televised by Channel 4, not only raised the profile of the sport but also pushed the local speed-loving siblings into the headlines.

Mel, who is 41, and 39-year-old Andrew, enjoyed an incredible race debut by winning last September's Cowes Classic and the prestigious concourse award at the first time of asking in their outstanding, bright-pink boat, Octopussy. Up to 20 identical boats take part in 10 races over five weekends across Britain and Europe.

Among those taking part in last year's championship were former National Hunt jockey Richard Dunwoody, TV pundit Jeremy Clarkson, Formula 1 chief Eddie Jordan and Radio1 DJ Jamie Theakston. The Streeks are joint managing directors of Claygate Distrib-ution Limited, a Marden-based distribution company that also sponsors the team boat.

This year's championship starts in Cardiff on May 18 and 19 and concludes with around the Isle of Wight in August.

The highlight will be the Putney to Ramsgate race on the Thames on June 8 and 9. The brothers also hope to compete in the warm-up event in Newhaven.