Downhill derby called off after racer hospitalised

A downhill derby event had to be called off after a participant was injured and had to be taken to hospital.

The incident happened at the annual race in Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, on Saturday.

“A participant in the event sustained injuries but these are not thought to be life-threatening or life-changing,” said a South Wales Police statement.

“Officers attended to assist with crowd safety in the area.”

Witnesses described seeing ambulances attending, along with an air ambulance which landed on the nearby beach.

A white sheet was held around the scene while the injured person received treatment from the emergency services.

The event sees home-made go-karts navigate a course down Cliff Hill in the seaside town.

Prizes are awarded for speed and creativity, according to the website of organiser Penarth town council.

The downhill derby formed part of the Penarth Summer Festival, with other events due to take place later, such as musical performances, also called off.