Horrified spectators watched as a rallycross car driven by Lydden Hill race circuit owner Pat Doran burst into flames.

The 53-year-old former British Rallycross champion was involved in an invitation race for historic cars in his 800bhp classic Ford RS 200 at the track, near Barham, when the engine caught fire.

Miraculously, he emerged from the car unhurt having been protected from the flames by his racing suit and helmet.

Thousands of spectators, who had flocked to the first ever World Rallycross round at the circuit, watched in horror as the car turned into a fireball.

Marshalls dashed to the vehicle with fire extinguishers and there was an agonising wait to see if Doran had been hurt.

A huge sigh of relief was breathed when he emerged from the car, apparently unscathed.

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Afterwards, Doran shrugged of the incident, saying: "The event went really well.

"No dramas, except for me. It was brilliant."

It was the first time the circuit had hosted a prestigious round of the World Rallycross championships and more than 10,000 spectators attended.

The event was won by Norwegian driver Andreas Bakkerud in a Ford Fiesta ST.

Video: Pat Doran's car bursts into flames at Lydden Hill

For more on the first FIA-World Rallycross Championship, click here.