Lewis Hamilton: We can't lose Silverstone!
Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton has backed Silverstone, insisting he cannot imagine the sport without it.
The driver, whose engines are built by Brixworth-based Mercedes Benz, said he would do everything he could to help ensure the South Northamptonshire track retained its position as the historic British home of Formula 1.
In an interview with Radio Five Live he said: "You can't lose this circuit. It's got real character and class and it's been around for years. If you lose it, Formula 1 won't be the same."
Pledging his support for the track's future, he added: "I don't get involved in the politics, but anything I can do to help the British Grand Prix, I will."
Over the years, Silverstone has faced constant criticism from Formula 1 owner Bernie Ecclestone, who has called for the circuit to be radically upgraded. To try to do this, the circuit's owner, the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC), has put together multi-million-pound improvement plans.
The scheme would see a new pit and paddock complex built at Silverstone as well as a business park, a distribution centre, two hotels and up to 190 houses built on land the club owns around the circuit.
Work is expected to start on the 35 million pit complex building in October with a predicted finish date of spring 2010.
The complex will include garages for 38 Formula 1 teams as well as a new start and finish line for the grand prix.
When it is completed it will be used exclusively for Formula 1, with the current pits used for other events.
The BRDC hopes the work will secure a contract to hold the British Grand Prix beyond the current cut-off date of 2009.
Tickets for this year's Grand Prix, which will be held on July 6, have already sold out.
Some tickets are still available for the practice and qualifying sessions on July 4 and 5. They are available from either www.silverstone.co.uk or by calling 08704 588300.
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