A Keighley company has been brought aboard to help smash the record for circumnavigating mainland Britain.

Aerovac Systems Ltd, of Bradford Road, Sandbeds, is supplying materials to help build a pioneering boat.

The craft -- known as a Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB) -- will spearhead an attempt to cut the current circumnavigation record time, which stands at just under 43 hours.

Aerovac is providing Formula One-style advanced composites processing materials for the boat, whose lightweight hull will be teamed up with a 317hp gas turbine engine.

The materials will help mould the body of the boat, which is being build mainly from carbon fibre.

Tony Cooper, for the company, said: "The wave-piercing design of the RIB is quite revolutionary, as are the materials and technology being used in its construction. Aerovac Systems is delighted to be involved in the project."

A one-fifth scale model of the craft has, in tests, demonstrated high speeds and smooth running through a variety of wave patterns.

Jon Aldiss, 40, who will drive the RIB, is confident of its capabilities. He said: "The secret of travelling fast for extended periods at sea is to have a boat which gives minimal pounding for the crew in varying sea states. Our new design has been developed to minimise pitching, yet still exceed 100mph flat out."

The record attempt will start and finish at Lowestoft, and is scheduled for July or August. Weather conditions at the time will determine a clockwise or anti-clockwise circumnavigation.