DRONE racers competed in an obstacle course-style event in a new craze.

Enthusiasts gathered on the J & P Carr Farms estate near Balsdean, Brighton to compete over three courses in the “Hidden Valley” and put their hovering machines to the test.

Aside from just flying their gadgets remotely, though, participants wear special goggles which pick up a live video footage from a signal from cameras on their drones so they feel as if they are actually gliding themselves.

Fes Askari, marketing manager for First Person View, behind the sport and hobby of wearing the goggles, said racers would be "left shaking" after finishing their events, having been fully immersed.

He told The Argus: “When the guys take their goggles off, their hands are shaking. The adrenaline is really pumping.

“That is the feel of it. It is its own unique sport with its own rush.

“You could ride a motocross bike or drive a car – or you could fly a drone. It’s a different feeling and completely surreal. A growing number of people want to experience this now.”

The event was organised by the Sussex First Person View Racing and Drone Club, led by Dom Robinson and Simon Dale.

It saw about 30 drone racers compete in heats around three courses. The courses were a woodland run through trees, open field targets with flags and obstacles and an abandoned building technical course, where racers had to guide their contraptions through rooms, windows and doors.

Aside from racing, the event also saw general flying for fun.

Modern drones – or quadcopters – are built with carbon fibre, making them quite durable, even with amateur users.

Mr Askari said: “It’s a really accessible sport for anyone to get into. It’s not as niche or geeky now. Anyone can buy a drone."

First Person View, based in Brighton, started seven years ago.

Mr Askari said: “About three or four years ago, with the advancements in technology, it became more accessible for people.

“They don’t want to be stuck in their bedrooms playing video games so they get out there. There’s the community element, too.”

A new pilot drone safety event is planned for August 6 at Deans Leisure Centre, Longhill High School, Falmer Road, Rottingdean, from 4.30pm until 7pm.

It is free but those interested should register here: http://bit.ly/1IlAjml.