A video has emerged showing the moment a Maltese racing driver ploughed into spectators during a hillclimb race in Piedimonte, Sicily on Sunday. 

The accident happened when the driver, Ryan Mangion, lost control of his car, a Ford Escort Mk1 in a curve with the vehicle careening off road and hitting the crowd. Eight spectators were injured, two of them - a 15-year-old and a 41-year-old critically, according to the Italian media. 

Mr Mangion has been competing in hillclimbs for several years and is regarded as an experienced driver.

The short video, uploaded by La Sicilia, shows the crowd panicking and quickly moving to help the injured. 

Another two Maltese were also taking part in the event, which was suspended after the crash.

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