Former Formula 1 and motorcycling world champion John Surtees has died, his family have confirmed.

The 83-year-old, who bought the Buckmore Park Kart Circuit in Chatham in 2015, died peacefully in hospital this afternoon.

Surtees was the only man to have won both the F1 and motorcycling grand prix world championships, winning seven world motorbike championships before becoming F1 World Champion with Ferrari in 1964.

The Edenbridge-based businessman was admitted to a London hospital in February with an existing respiratory condition.

"It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our husband and father, John Surtees CBE," his family said in a statement.

"John was a loving husband, father, brother and friend. He was also one of the true greats of motorsport and continued to work tirelessly up until recently with The Henry Surtees Foundation and Buckmore Park Kart Circuit.

"We deeply mourn the loss of such an incredible, kind and loving man as well as celebrate his amazing life. He has set a very real example of someone who kept pushing himself at his peak and one who continued fighting until the very end.

"We would like to thank all the staff at St George's Hospital and The East Surrey Hospital for their professionalism and support during this difficult time for us.

"Thank you also to all of those who have sent their kind messages in recent weeks."

Mr Surtees bought karting circuit Buckmore Park in Chatham in 2015.

He had long been a supporter of the circuit having already owned the freehold on the track since the 1990s.

He planned an expansion onto 90 acres he owned next to the circuit, founded in 1963 as a facility for the local Scouts group.

Chatham and Aylesford MP Tracey Crouch tweeted: "Devastating news about racing legend John Surtees. A real national & local hero through his support of sport & charitable work. V sad."

In 2009, his son Henry, 18, was tragically killed in an accident at Brands Hatch while competing in a Formula 2 race.

Funeral details are yet to be announced.