Thousands of people have signed a petition to save the world’s longest-running motorsports event.

The first Brighton Speed Trials took place in Madeira Drive, Brighton, in 1905.

But organisers say they fear for its future as Brighton and Hove City Council has not yet approved an application to host the event in 2014.

Admitting concerns about the safety of the event following the death of a competitor in 2012, leading councillors said they had to weigh up all the options before making a decision.

More than 8,500 people have signed a petition on the council’s website calling for the event to be saved.

A decision will be made by the council’s Economic Development and Culture Committee at a meeting on January 23.

For more details visit www.brighton-hove.gov.uk and search for e-petitions.