A fundraiser has been launched for the family of a motorsport marshal who died in a horror crash at Brands Hatch.

The volunteer was tragically killed yesterday after a car left the circuit during a race, and flipped into a section of fencing.

Thousands of pounds have already been donated to the Justgiving page, which aims to raise £10,000 for the marshal's loved ones.

The fundraising organiser wrote: "Marshals play a huge role in motorsport. Without them, motorsport cannot happen. Marshals are a vital part of the motorsport family.

"Unfortunately, on Saturday, July 31, there was an incident at Brands Hatch where a marshal sadly passed away.

"This page is to raise money for the family and friends affect by this incident. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them."

Launched at about 10am, the page has already received more than £4,000 in donations from devastated motorsport fans.

One wrote: "Without marshals there would be no motorsports. So sad and sorry to hear about this tragic loss."

Another donor said: "Thoughts going out to the family and friends of this marshal. Our thanks to all the Orange Army."

Another wrote: "We could not do what we do, what we love, without your sacrifice. Rest in peace - thank you."

Emergency services including an air ambulance descended on the Brand Hatch circuit mid-afternoon yesterday.

Racing was cancelled yesterday afternoon following the crash, but resumed at about 10am today.

Former Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton reacted to the tragedy this morning, 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 British Automobile Racing Club has confirmed a probe into the crash is underway.

A statement issued by the racing organisation BARC said: "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."

In response race car manufacturer Mclaren tweeted its condolences to the Marshal's family and thanked marshals across the world for "everything you do for our sport."

Police say they were called shortly before 3pm "following a collision involving a car and two people on foot".

A spokesman added: "Officers attended and carried out enquiries at the scene. No suspicious circumstances have been reported."

No information has been released about the driver, or the other person involved.

Motorsport fans have tonight taken to social media to pay their respects, and share their shock at the tragic news.

One user called @SR_Chep wrote on Twitter: "Racing doesn't happen without Marshals volunteering to keep drivers and the public safe. Tragically, a Marshal lost their life today doing what they loved. Motorsport fans world-wide will pay their respects tonight. RIP."

Katherine Runciman said: "Our hearts and love go to all the marshals who were there, the medical responders and their friends and family. Incredibly sad."

Angelo Joseph added: "Marshals make racing possible. This is such sad news."

Fans have also urged people not to share footage of the crash, out of respect for those involved and for their loved ones.

Today's incident comes six days after British Superbike rider Brad Jones was placed in an induced coma following a crash at Brands Hatch.

To visit the Justgiving page, click here.

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