In five consecutive years of growth between 1998-2003, the revenue of the UK leisure marine industry has increased by 45% and figures for 2003 show that the industry has grown by 5.2% overall, providing £1,837 million of revenue from both domestic sales and exports.

Industry statistics also show that a growing number of people are employed in the marine industry. Currently 30,094 people work in leisure marine-related businesses, an increase of 5.5% on last year.

"The British leisure marine industry is moving from strength to strength, " said BMF chief executive, John Clarke.

"The rising revenues and strong export figures make it an important sector of the country's economy. The high quality design and innovation of the UK's marine products are renowned the world over, a reputation the industry has worked hard to achieve."