YACHTSMEN and women in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight may soon have to pay a tax to enjoy their hobby.

The government is planning to charge small boat owners to use off-shore navigational aids such as lighthouses and buoys which have been free of charge.

In a consultation document the government is proposing that boat owners of vessels below 20 tonnes should be made to pay what are known as "light dues".

Commercial shipping companies pay up to £16,000 a year for vessels to use navigational aids.

The scheme is opposed by the Royal Yachting Association which says money should be raised from general taxation.

The issue has also raised concern at yacht clubs. Tony Lovell former commodore and chief race officer at the Royal Southern Yacht Club in Southampton said: "We are aware that the government and its agency, Trinity House, is seeking to cut costs and increase revenue but we have not been formally consulted.

"We do not know whether this would apply to all boats regardless of size and regardless of their use. Most boats are not registered so setting a charge and collecting it would be a major headache."