The Powerboard is said to reach speeds of 25 mph

Inventor Peter Briggs has built a skateboard which he says can travel uphill at speeds of about 25 mph.

But the "Powerboard", which goes into production in October, is not powered by a motor.

The invention works through a foot pedal and a gear mechanism at the rear of the board.

Unlike a normal skateboard, there is a small child's bike wheel at the back which rotates and stores up energy.

Mr Briggs, from Pulloxhill in Bedfordshire, said the invention requires boarders to use a gear mechanism.

"As the skateboarder goes along he rides as normal, but powers the board up using the foot pedal and going up the gears," he said.

Reaching fast speeds

"At the bottom of a hill you simply release the power that has been stored up.

"In the tests so far we have been getting uphill at very fast speeds."

He added: "I think the drive mechanism is unique. I call it an Energy Transfer Rotating Device.

There are two versions of the Powerboard - six gears for adults and two for children.

The prototype was assembled and tested at Wrest Park in Silsoe, Bedfordshire.

Since then, Mr Briggs and his team have reduced the weight of the board using plastics and nylons.