Driver killed at Silverstone race

Darren Needham was racing alongside his father

A company director driving in the opening lap of a race at Silverstone has been killed.

Darren Needham, who headed a Maidstone company, was competing in the John Cooper Challenge on Sunday when his Mini hit a barrier.

A spokesman for John Cooper said the ninth round race did not re-start after his car hit the crash barriers near Becketts Corner.

Mr Needham was competing alongside his father James in the race.

He was the director of the James Villa holiday company and had some rally and karting experience but had only started racing last year.

In a statement, John Cooper said: "The thoughts and sympathies of everyone involved in the John Cooper Challenge are with Darren's family and many friends over this tragic loss.

"The championship organisers would also like to record their gratitude to the officials and marshals at Silverstone for their professionalism throughout the incident."