An investigation has been launched after a fire ripped through a row of marquees at Brands Hatch racing circuit.

Firefighters were called to the site in Fawkham in the early hours of this morning.

The blaze started in one of the trade marquees, set up for the British Superbike Championships which are taking place there this weekend.

The flames quickly spread to three neighbouring tents and two vans parked nearby.

Three fire crews from Dartford and Swanley, as well as a specialist water unit from Larkfield, attended.

A spokesman for Kent Fire and Rescue said: "All the marquees were well alight when we arrived at 1am. The fire had started in one of them and, because they are close together, had quickly spread to the others.

"The campsite where spectators were staying was close by so there was a danger the fire could spread further, but we were able to contain it. No-one was hurt in the incident."

The area was cordoned off by police while forensic officers examined the scene , while the British Superbike Championships went ahead.