Brooke’s statement goes on to say those who said that two shows cannot co-exist in London have been proved wrong. He continues: ‘Our show is quite different to the show run by National Boat Shows at Excel, and always will be. Our two measures of success have been the overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received from both exhibitors and visitors, and not a head count of visitors. For our exhibitors it has been about business, and for our visitors it has been about the overall experience.’

He continues: ‘While the number of visitors in our first year was clearly not as great as we initially forecast, we have created a strong foundation of quality visitors that will return next year. We will improve our marketing and let ten times as many people know about our show, as many people have told us that they did not know it was happening.’

Brooke says his aim now is to increase the number of quality visitors for his exhibitors, without diluting the quality he says he has achieved. ‘We will do this by working tirelessly throughout the year with all our partners and exhibitors to spread the news that the new show at Earls Court is unique, and here to stay. We have proven to be a positive influence in the marine industry, increasing the overall volume of business that was done in 2007.’