A fundraiser has been set up for the family and friends of a volunteer marshal who died in an accident at Brands Hatch racing circuit on Saturday (July 31).
The marshal was killed after a freak accident at the north Kent race track saw a car spin off the track during a British Automobile Racing Club Car Championship event.
Police, paramedics and an air ambulance were called to the scene near Dartford at 3pm on July 31, but the volunteer marshal was later confirmed to have died.
The fundraiser has already raised £13,769 for the family and friends of the marshal, surpassing its original target of £10k in under two days.
Former Formula One driver Karun Chandhok reacted on Twitter: “Very sad news coming from Brands Hatch today.
“Marshalls are volunteers who give up their weekends to support the sport they love. Awful to hear that a member of this close knit community lost their life.
“My condolences to the family at this tragic time.”
Former Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton also commented, saying his heart is with the volunteer marshal’s family.
He wrote on Instagram: “Devastated to hear of the passing of a marshal at the Brands Hatch Circuit."
The fundraiser says that marshals "play a huge role" and are a "vital part of the Motorsport family."
"This page is to raise money for the family and friends affect by this incident. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them."
Comments left by those who donating included: "Sincere condolences on a loss impacting so many, we owe so much to our volunteers. RIP."
One person called it "such a sad loss of life," whilst another said it was an "absolute tragedy."
Whilst all racing was cancelled on Saturday following the crash, the motorsport resumed at Brands Hatch at 10am on Sunday.
BARC said in a statement that as with any major incident the BARC is now working with the national governing body, Motorsport UK and the local police.
"On behalf of everyone connected with the BARC, we are devastated by loss of one of the amazing volunteer marshal community who do so much to enable the sport to take place.
"Our thoughts and best wishes are with the family and friends of all those involved.
"It is anticipated that the event will resume on Sunday."
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