Two inventors from Brighton have been awarded a government grant to develop a folding sailing boat - the first of its kind in the world.

Keen sailors Gareth Roberts and Darren Ward have secured an international patent for their unique design, the X-CAT, a four hulled catamaran-type sail boat which weighs less than 75kg and can be folded up and transported on a car's roof rack.

They set up their Brighton-based company Warob Marine in June specifically to develop their design.

Now, after securing a Smart Award from the Department of Trade and Industry's Small Business Service, they have been able to move the craft from the drawing board to the water.

The grant allowed them to create a prototype for their boat which they have since dry tested to iron out minor design flaws.

They are preparing to introduce their finished product to water in the next few weeks.

Mr Roberts, from Hove, who is a member of Brighton Sailing Club, said: "We did a race a few years back where we had to go to Holland but it was cancelled when we got there after two days of travelling. We thought there must be an easier way of transportation.

"Our boat is designed for anyone who has storage problems.

"Clubs like Brighton, whose boats are stored between the piers, have reached their maximum number so it would help them with their storage problems.

"It fits quite nicely into a garage or a shed."

He hopes it will also appeal to companies in the tourist industry.

Mr Roberts added: "The SMART award was crucial in enabling the company to build the first prototype.

"Prior to receiving the award we had done some computer modelling.

"However many problems cannot be envisaged without a full-size prototype, which the award allowed us to produce. The onset of winter will not stop us testing - dry suits, gloves and hats will be the order of the day."

The grant is designed to help individuals and small and medium-sized businesses to research and develop technologically innovative products and processes.

Details on how to apply can be found at www.businesslink.org

Wednesday October 29, 2003