A petition has been launched to re-name a motorsport tunnel after a marshal who was killed at Brands Hatch.

Robert Foote, 67, has been named locally as the volunteer killed during a crash at the world-famous track, near Dartford.

The incident involving a car and two people on foot happened during a British Automobile Racing Club event shortly before 3pm on Saturday.

Medics – including an air ambulance – attended to Mr Foote but he died from injuries sustained in the crash.

Tributes have been paid to the former mayor of Epsom and Ewell, including from Former Formula One World Champion Lewis Hamilton. A JustGiving page for the family has also amassed more than £30,000 in donations

Several people posted orange love hearts – the colours adorned by race marshals – alongside photos with the hashtag #OrangeArmy.

Now a petition has been launched by motoring enthusiast page, The Hard Compound, asking Brands Hatch to consider naming the Paddock to Pits tunnel after Mr Foote.

It reads: "After careful consideration we believe that Robert Foote, the marshal who lost his life at Brands Hatch this weekend should be permanently remembered.

"That's why we have set up a petition to kindly ask Brands Hatch to consider naming the Paddock to Pits tunnel at the circuit 'The Robert Foote Tunnel'.

"The marshals are the unsung heroes of motor racing, vital cogs in the race day machine, and we feel it is only right that the tunnel between the Paddock and the Pits at Brands Hatch be named after Mr. Foote – not only is it near the marshals post that Robert was stationed at, but unlike all the corners at Brands Hatch it is in use at every event – just as marshals are vital at every event."

Richard Hoit, who set up the petition, said the motorsport community wanted to do something to recognise the selfless acts of marshalls like Rob.

"I think it is time to give these guys a bit more praise and respect," he said. "They don''t get enough for what they do."

Mr Hoit has reached out to organisers at Brands Hatch and understands a commemoration of some form is in the works.

In which case he says the petition would remain a "show of support for any memorial that may be planned" and urged people to continue to sign.

"Even if Brands Hatch have their own idea, tribute or plaque that's great," he added.

The rest of Saturday's action was cancelled but racing on Sunday went ahead.

An online book of condolences has been opened by Epsom and Ewell council.

Councillor Hannah Dalton, Chair of the Residents’ Association said: “We were deeply saddened to hear of the tragic death of a wonderful friend and colleague.

“Rob served the local community for over eighteen years, putting local residents at the heart of everything he did.

“His untimely death is a tragedy and the Council have set up an online book of condolences so that the people of the borough can pay their own respects and tributes to him.”

Rob was born in Bristol and spent 30 years in the airline industry.

He also ran a car servicing business and worked as an MOT tester before moving into local politics as a councillor and mayor, alongside his wife Rosemary, who sadly passed away in December last year.

The British Automobile Racing Club (BARC) has confirmed a probe into the crash is underway.

A statement issued by the racing organisation said: "As with any major incident, the BARC is now working with the national governing body, Motorsport UK, and the local police.

"On behalf of everyone connected with the BARC, we are devastated by loss of one of the amazing volunteer marshal community who do so much to enable the sport to take place.

"Our thoughts and best wishes are with the family and friends of all those involved."

Police say they were called shortly before 3pm "following a collision involving a car and two people on foot".

A spokesman added: "Officers attended and carried out enquiries at the scene. No suspicious circumstances have been reported."

The incident comes six days after British Superbike rider Brad Jones was placed in an induced coma following a crash at Brands Hatch.

Track medics were also called to a "monster crash" at the track in June after a driver had a narrow escape.

Read more: All the latest news from Dartford