A stock car racer had to be cut from his car after a horrific crash during the sport’s biggest race of the season.
Peter Scott Jnr, was taken to hospital with a suspected fractured spine and injuries to his back, pelvis and ribs after his stock car ploughed into a post during the first race of the V8 formula series at the Stock Car Supreme Championship at Wimbledon Stadium last night.
Peter Scott Senior had just crossed the line to win when his son, Peter Scott Junior, attempted to move into second place by overtaking Luton driver Lee Barnard.
In what was described as a "freak accident" Mr Scott Jnr’s car clipped one of the track's safety tyres and crashed head-on into a steel post.
Crowds looked on anxiously while fire fighters worked to cut the 34-year-old from the mangled wreckage before he was taken to St George's hospital where he remains.
Michael Burnage, who was at the track last night, said: "With any sport there is an element of risk.
"Our type of motorsport is one of the safest around but sometimes these things happened.
"It took an hour and a quarter before he was out of the car safely. They have to be so careful with spinal injuries.
"It happened right in front of the main grandstand where everyone is.
"Obviously everyone was concerned. This is the first accident of this sort at Wimbledon for many years.
"You get day to day knocks but I have never seen fire engines on the tracks before. It just shows how safe it is normally."
He added: "In a time when everybody is pre-occupied with their own importance, what was incredible from a human stand point was that the knowledgeable crowd understood the significance of what was happening right in front of the main stand, and were respectful to the injured driver and his family throughout."
"He is currently in hospital with injuries to his back, pelvis and ribs.
"We are in touch with his family and when we have more substantial information we can pass on we will of course let everyone know.
"I am sure all drivers and supporters will join all of us at Spedeworth Motorsports in sending our best wishes to Peter."
Following the incident, and out of respect for Mr Scott, the remaining V8 cars did a parade lap around the track.
Do you know Mr Scott? Did you see what happened? Contact the newsdesk on 020 8722 6336 or email newsdesk@wimbledonguardian.co.uk.
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