SIMON Belcher has become only the second Briton to win the European Jet Ski title after bringing home the trophy from Chemnitz, Germany.

But Belcher, from Faringdon, had to overcome a severe technical problem in order to take the crown.

Despite an excellent qualifying session for the first race, resulting in pole position, Belcher's boat did not even make the first lap after engine failure.

But in the race proper, Belcher took the lead after a flying start and held on for a well-deserved victory.

In the final race, Belcher had to finish ahead of Cesar Vismara to clinch the title and although he could only manage third, Vismara trailed in a further place back, handing him the championship.

Belcher said afterwards: "There was no point pushing the boat harder to catch second place as I knew Vismara could not get past.

"I did not want to push the engine any further than necessary."

Belcher will be going for further glory when he heads for Rotherham for the final round of the British Championships.