Users of jet-propelled watercraft have defended their sport after criticism that they are putting swimmers' lives at risk.

Paul Richards, 37, and Gary Beadle, 41, of Shoreham, are among a group of Sussex-based skiers who regularly ski in the lanes allocated off Hove shoreline.

At the weekend there was criticism from lifeguards and seafront officers after skiers were seen speeding past swimmers in the shallows instead of keeping to their allocated lanes.

It was even suggested it might be necessary to ban such craft from the shoreline.

Mr Richards, of Rosemary Drive, said: "It's true there are a lot of idiots out there, which makes it hard for the rest of us. But equally we have a problem with some swimmers who stray into the powerboat lane.

"The problem is the lanes are not clearly marked and are not big enough for the number of watercraft which use them."

He suggested a bigger area be allocated for powerboat and jet-propelled craft with a separate beach towards the quieter Portslade end of the seafront.

Mr Richards, who runs a watersports sales, service and repair company, added: "These problems arise because the existing lanes are close to a highly populated swimming beach.

"One of our objectives is to improve the understanding between swimmers and boat users. Swimmers need to be aware a powerboat lane does exist and skiers need to make sure they know the rules."

He said he would be happy to see legislation introduced to ensure skiers acquired a licence before using a jet-propelled craft.

He also hoped to set up a support organisation which would provide advice and information for people wishing to use jet-propelled craft.

He said: "This is an up-and-coming sport and trying to ban it from the beaches of Brighton and Hove is not a solution. Instead, we need better knowledge and understanding from both sides."