THE family of a mother who died during a motor sport race last night said her “sunshine and smiles” would be missed by everyone.

Charlotte Tagg, 38, of Beck Row, near Mildenhall, died on Saturday when the motorbike and sidecar she was in smashed into a barrier at the Brighton Speed Trials.

The mother-of-three was racing with a 64-year-old man, from London, who was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

The family said: “Charlotte was a unique woman who lived a full, adventurous life on her own terms. She touched the lives of many with her sunshine and smiles and will be missed by all.

“We appreciate all the condolences and heartwarming tributes paid to Charlotte online and wish a speedy recovery to the rider. Charlotte was tragically taken from us taking part in a sport she loved, living her life her way. She leaves three beautiful children and a grieving family.”

Emergency services attended shortly after 6pm on Saturday but Ms Tagg was confirmed dead shortly afterwards.

A police investigation has begun into the incident, which happened when the motorbike and sidecar failed to stop at the end of the track in Madeira Drive, Brighton.

A spokeswoman for the Brighton Speed Trials said: “We work incredibly hard throughout the year to ensure the safety standards are met.

“It’s a tragic accident that’s happened and we need to find out exactly what happened before we do anything else.

“Obviously, our condolences go out to the family of this woman. It’s awful and an horrendous thing to happen.”

Friends and neighbours of Ms Tagg described her as fun-loving and caring. Friend Dave Bishop, 56, said she was someone who had no fear and loved anything that went fast. “She was just so much into bikes. She was bikes mad. Everybody knew Charlotte. She will be a big miss.”

The Brighton Speed Trials, have been running since 1905. This year’s event was cancelled immediately after the crash.