A teenage motorcyclist died today after crashing during a race and being hit by two other riders.

Benjamin Gautrey, 18, sustained “significant and serious chest injuries” after falling on the first lap at Cadwell Park, Lincolnshire

Benjamin, from Southport, Merseyside, was competing in the National Superstock 600 race at the British Superbike Series meeting.

A statement from race organisers MSVR said: “On the first lap of the National Superstock 600 race at Cadwell Park circuit, Benjamin Gautrey fell on the right hand corner at the bottom of the Mountain section.

“He was unavoidably hit by two riders immediately following him, five riders fell in total. The race was immediately stopped.

“Gautrey, 18 from Southport sustained significant and serious chest and head injuries, he was treated immediately trackside by the BSB Medical Team before being transferred to the circuit medical centre where further attempts to resuscitate him were made. All other riders involved in the incident were uninjured.

“Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries.

“The full circumstances of the accident will be investigated by the MCRCB and the Coroners’ office.”

British Superbike Series director Stuart Higgs said: “I am so desperately sad that Ben died from the injuries he sustained at Cadwell Park. He was a really super young guy on his debut season at national level showing plenty of promise having won the Thundersport GB Moto450 Championship the previous year.

“It was entirely fitting that Ben Wilson was able to dedicate his Supersport win to Ben.”

Race winner Wilson, a team-mate of Gautrey, said: “This was a fantastic race and a win that I dedicate it to my team-mate Ben.”