A new charity which aims to get more people with disabilities on the water in powerboats has received overwhelming support at its first event, held during the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show.

The Disabled Powerboating Trust held a party at Sunseeker International hosted by the inspiration for the charity, its first ambassador and All at Sea columnist, Geoff Holt MBE. Geoff, who is a wheel chair user, encouraged individuals and companies both in and beyond the marine industry to get involved. He revealed that, although there are many sailing charities for people with disabilities, this is the first charity to use powerboats.

The Trust will raise money, identify providers of suitable craft, make grants and provide information to those with disabilities who wish to access the water under power. Its first goal is to get at least 25 companies to adopt the Disabled Powerboating Trust as their chosen charity for 2012.