The organisers of a pram race which ended when a tragic crash left a man with a fatal head injury have said it is too early decide on the future of the event.

Hundreds of people flocked to Sutton Valence on Sunday for the New Year's Day competition, which sees teams in colourful costumes complete two laps of the village's loop road, including "pit stops" at pubs along the way.

But tragedy struck at 12.30pm when the Spitfire-styled trike carrying Francis (Titch) O'Sullivan overturned in front of packed crowds in High Street.

Emergency services rushed to the scene and the 52-year-old, was taken to King's College Hospital in London where he later passed away.

Speaking on behalf of the organisers, the Queens Head Oddfellows Fund, Dominic Uglow, expressed his sympathies to the family.

He said: "Queens Head Oddfellows Fund members wish to offer their sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Francis (Titch) O’Sullivan at this very sad time.

"The police are investigating the circumstances and reporting to the coroner and we expect to be assisting them with these enquiries in the near future. That is all we can say at the moment."

Mr Uglow said it would be "premature" to make any decision about the future of the pram race at this point, adding it is a painful time for all involved.

The death has led to an outpouring of grief and shock from friends, family and the local community.

Writing on Facebook, Mr O'Sullivan's sister Jeanette Gribben paid tribute to 'a great brother, dad and uncle.'

She added: "Love you always and forever in our thoughts. May you sleep tight and smile down on us. Sweet dreams. Love you forever."