The powerboating crew

of Gavin Parsonage and Nathan Libby were among the winners at the Honda Formula 4-Stroke Series annual awards dinner, held at the British Empire & Commonwealth Museum in Bristol.

Parsonage, who lives at Rosecraddoc, near Liskeard, and Saltash-based Libby claimed victory in the 225hp class aboard their vessell Negotiator for the second year in succession, beating off their rivals by six points.

'It was a big achievement to win for the second year running, said Parsonage. 'The racing was harder this year due to the changes in format and the fact that a lot of the other boats are getting faster.

'We had a great night and have enjoyed being part of the Honda series again this year.

The awards evening was hosted by television presenter Mike Brewer and F4SA director Steve Curtis, with accolades in five categories going to teams for their achievements throughout the season and the overall Championship awards going to first, second and third places.

Jason Yorke-Edgell, managing Director of Ebel UK, also joined the stage to present the Champions with their Automatic Chronograph watches from Ebel's new 1911 Discovery collection and runners-up with their watches from their elegant Brasilia and Classic collections. The series also launched its 2009 race calendar at the event, which will be sold to raise money for Helen & Douglas House – a registered charity providing respite and end of life care for children and young adults with life shortening conditions.

More than £1,200 was raised on the night at the prize draw. Honda had donated two tickets to the British Superbikes event at Brands Hatch next April, and Kate Day from the charity was there to receive the donation.

Honda have been the title sponsor of the powerboat series since it began in 1999 and now, with the series celebrating its tenth birthday next year – and also its 100th race-day – the 2009 campaign is expected to be the biggest yet.

Geoff Matthews, general manager of Honda Power Equipment (UK), said: 'I can remember our very first race back in 1999, with just five 130hp boats.

'Little did we know then that we were starting something which would grow into the largest one make Powerboat series in the world!'