SEA Scouts Will James and Alex Heath will return from America this week after representing Britain in the competition for the International Sea Scout Cup.

Will, 14 and Alex, 18, both from Corsham Sea Scouts, have been racing against crews from Norway, New Zealand, Ireland and Australia, as well as crews from America, the host country, as part of an all expenses paid trip to race in the Koch Cup.

The water-mad duo have been taking part in events such as sailboat racing, Sea Scout skills competitions, field trips and maritime attractions.

Chris Hyde, their Sea Scouts Leader, explained how the Koch event is based on the famous America's Cup.

"It's run on a similar principle and each country or team races against each other until two are left for the final."

The Sea Scouts, who joined the Beavers when they were six years old, were asked by their leaders if they would like to take part in the competition after the group was called by one of the organisers, who had a contact in Corsham.

The pair jumped at the opportunity. Alex, who will shortly take on a full leader's warrant, and Will spent weeks training on a local lake.

Group leader Mike Rose said: "We practised sailing with them. They were really looking forward to taking part in the competition.

"They are basically sailing from ten in the morning to five at night.

"I think it was a bit daunting for them but they were really excited."

The second annual Koch Cup is taking place at the Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay at Cape Cod.

Mr Rose said: "It would be very nice if the two did win but we hope they get a sense of enjoyment and personal achievement whatever happens."