So, phenomenal news - Silverstone remains the hub for F1 here in the UK for another seventeen years. Of course that is good for the circuit and good for the proud heritage of this area.
But what about the area itself, how will Brackley and it's surrounding areas benefit?
Each year, Silverstone is deluged by the F1 faithful who travel from far and wide to visit the Grand Prix. They camp, they stay in hotels, they rent houses, they stay with friends, and of which supports the local economy. They go to pubs and restaurants, they buy things in our shops, they use all our services, and they go and tell the rest of the country what a great time they had (and we have to play our part in making sure they were welcome, and did have a good time!).
The circuit itself needs to remain in tip-top condition for F1 motorsport. That requires engineers, builders, electricians, landscapers, architects and a wide range of deisgners and consultants, the majority of which will come from the local community.
A Silverstone consigned for the metaphorical can would most certainly have had to be much more creative about it's future. There might have been more festival days like the one at the circuit this summer with Blue, Pussy Cat Dolls and Carlos Santana (we went - what a fantastic day!), or vintage/special class racing days.
Now, they can still do this, but the focus will be on making 2010 a phenomenal return to the GP club.
This news is worth a lot to us. It is one of the vital components which makes this region such a strong focus for F1. So, thank you Damon Hill and BRDC. Thank you too, Bernie Ecclestone - you knew all along that the UK is the rightful home of F1.
