‘World-class’ hovercraft drivers are set to descend on an East Lancashire town this bank holiday weekend, as the motorsport’s European Championships arrive.

Magnolls Farm in Oswaldtwistle will see three days of 80mph-plus amphibious racing start on Saturday, May 25, with U16s able to watch the action up-close for free.

Hovercraft races have been hosted at Magnolls for two decades, but this year’s event marks a first-time appearance for competitors from the European Hovercraft Federation.

Second-in-the-world racer, Hannah Deacon said: “People from all over the continent will be travelling over with their hovercrafts.

“It’s the only European event in the UK this year so that’s really exciting, we’ll be racing across water and land.”

Families will get the chance to have their pictures taken with drivers, as well as ask any questions they may have about the sport.

“It’s quite noisy, I will say that,” Hannah joked.

“But it’s a really great, close-watch sport to come and see; you’re really near to the track when the races are on, plus you can see all of the course.

“You’ll see the start, us come over the water, then come down the hill and across the finish line.

“Another great part is that most motorsports are all about time trials, whereas in this we’re all next to each and head-to-head.”

This weekend’s racing will see five categories, ranging from junior racing all the way up to the most powerful formulas with ‘unlimited engine power’.

Hannah’s backing F50 GB national champion, Adam Turnbull, and last year’s Euros winner for Sweden, Marcus Westerberg, as the two to watch.

Hovercraft racing isn’t separated by gender which Hannah says: “creates a lovely community.”

Organised by the Hovercraft Club of Great Britain, the action will also be part of the national championship.

Adults will be charged £5 each to attend, dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead.