Formula 1 fans encouraged to attend British Grand Prix

The British Formula 1 venue had advised Saturday ticket-holders with general car parking tickets not to attend and offered refunds in the wake of the weather and traffic chaos that had marred the event so far.

But organisers are now confident that they are on top of the issues and that Sunday - when a 125,000-strong crowd is expected - will run smoothly.

"Silverstone would like to thank fans that heeded the circuit's advice on Friday evening and did not come to the Formula 1 Santander British Grand Prix on Saturday," said a Silverstone statement.

"While it was an extremely difficult decision, and one that will have disappointed people that had to stay away, the decision gave the circuit a fighting chance to repair and get previously unsafe car parks into a state that can be used on race day.

"The circuit has implemented further contingency plans throughout Friday night and Saturday. As a result, it is now in a stronger position to accommodate all ticket holders coming to Silverstone on Sunday."

The track has issued advice to fans travelling to the circuit, including to "leave plenty of time to arrive at the circuit and, where possible, travel in 4x4 vehicles, on motorcycles or car share."