A British Superbike rider is in an induced coma after crashing during a race at Brands Hatch.

Brad Jones, 23, was taking part in a Bennetts British Superbike Championship race at the West Kingsdown track yesterday when he crashed at Clark Curve during the opening lap.

The race was immediately red flagged, and the BMW rider was attended to by trackside and vehicle medical teams.

Jones, from Dorset, was unconscious at the scene and transferred to the circuit medical centre for further treatment.

He was then taken by helicopter to King's College Hospital in London.

He suffered serious head, chest and pelvic injuries.

Event organisers MotorSport Vision Racing (MSVR) said: "He will remain in an induced coma for 24 to 48 hours after sustaining serious head, chest and pelvic injuries and is receiving all necessary treatment.

"MSVR is in direct contact with the family, who extend their thanks for all the support that they are receiving, and to the BSB medical team and Racesafe marshals who attended Brad.

"Further information will be released when possible.

"Additional updates are not expected in the next 48 hours."

The race was later restarted and won by McAMS Yamaha rider Tarran Mackenzie in front of thousands of spectators.

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