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

Brad Jones, aged 23, crashed in the opening lap of a championship race at the Kent racing circuit on Saturday, July 24.

The Bennetts British Superbike Championship race was immediately red flagged as vehicle medical teams rushed to help, with Jones unconscious at the scene.

The iForce Lloyd & Jones BMW rider was treated at trackside before he was airlifted to Kings College Hospital.

Dorset-born Jones, who sustained serious head, chest and leg injuries, will remain in the coma for up to 48 hours.

News Shopper: Brad Jones is currently in a London hospital - MSVRBrad Jones is currently in a London hospital - MSVR

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.