A race car has veered off track during a competition in Sri Lanka, killing seven people and injuring 20 others, officials said.

The car crashed into a crowd of spectators and race officials during a race in the town of Diyatalawa, around 110 miles (180km) east of the capital Colombo.

Around 45,000 spectators were in attendance.

It was not immediately clear what caused the accident and the condition of the driver is unknown.

Police spokesman Nihal Thalduwa said the car veered off track and crashed into spectators and officials.

Seven people, including four officials, were killed and another 20 were being treated at a hospital, he added.

Three of the injured were in a critical condition.

Police have launched an investigation into the accident.

The race at a Sri Lankan military academy was suspended after the accident.

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The event had been organised by the Sri Lankan army and Sri Lanka Automobile Sports.

It was the 17th out of 24 events scheduled.

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