Organisers confident of no mud bath repeat ... as Silverstone is yet to sell-out

Spectators make their way through the mud as they arrive for the British Grand Prix.

The forecast for this weekend’s race, which is again expected to attract around 300,000 spectators, suggests there could be an occasional shower during the weekend.

However, race organisers say the deluge that led to problems last year, when car parks were saturated cars were stuck in long queues, will not be repeated.

Police have today asked motorists to still park considerately, both in surrounding villages and on the main routes.

Traffic manager Ian Ledingham said: “The forecast is set reasonably fair for the weekend and, while there may be a little rain around, we are certainly not anticipating the waterlogged conditions from last year.

“There were issues with abandoned vehicles in the Silverstone area last year and we would remind visiting motorists that they must park at their campsite of choice, or in accordance with Silverstone Circuit’s parking instructions.

“All parking restrictions within local villages and on the main routes in and around the circuit must be observed, we will come down hard on all drivers who ignore these restrictions.

“On a separate note, I would urge non-race traffic this weekend to avoid the area if possible and use the signed diversion routes. If you don’t follow the diversions, there is a danger you will be fed into the circuit and face lengthy delays.”

Meanwhile, track bosses have confirmed Silvertone is unlikely to be a sell-out on Sunday.

Silverstone Circuit has confirmed that tickets will remain on sale during the event, enabling fans to ‘buy on the gate’ when they arrive at the circuit.

Richard Phillips, managing director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, said: “While we don’t expect to reach the record attendance levels of 2011 and 2012, we are anticipating another big crowd here at Silverstone this weekend.

“Ticket sales were slower than usual during the initial sales period, but we have seen a significant upturn in interest and buying patterns since F1 returned to Europe. “This, coupled with an improvement in the weather and a promising forecast for the weekend, has prompted us to put measures in place to sell tickets to fans deciding to turn up on the day. This weekend’s attendance looks set to be one of our biggest in recent years.”

‘On the day’ tickets will be available to purchase at Gate 1.

Parking will also be available for fans driving to the circuit, costing £20 per car on Friday, £30 per car on Saturday and £60 per car on Sunday.

For details visit www.silverstone.co.uk.