'Fantastic news' says ex world champion

'It is fantastic news. The circuit holds great memories for me,' the 1992 World Champion said.

'I won my first Grand Prix there in '85 and '86. The circuit's undulations and demanding corners made great racing and it was a huge spectacle for the fans, The atmosphere was electric.'

Other Formula 1 figures have welcomed the move, including current driver Rubens Barrichello.

The Stewart driver said, 'I enjoyed Brands Hatch. I'd seen Paddock Hill Bend before I went there and thought it was fantastic. When I drove it, it was even better.'

1996 World Champion Damon Hill hopes the track will still be exciting to drive.

'All drivers ask is that they have a track that is exciting to drive and has good facilities and safety. The old Brands Hatch was just beautiful, but it's gone now.

'Variety is important, not only for drivers but also for the Championship. Going back to the same venue year after year can become a bit samey.'

But, not everyone is happy. TV commentator Murray Walker felt the Grand Prix deserved to stay at Silverstone because of the work the BRDC had put into the
Northamptonshire venue.

But, Walker did not see it as the end of the world, saying, 'It would not be a disaster if the race goes back to Brands if Nicola Foulston makes the changes to the circuit which are needed.

'It remains to be seen whether she can do that.'

And BRDC vice-president Stirling Moss added, 'I think at Silverstone we have run very good races and it would be a shame if the GP goes.

'Being the most important club there is, I think it would be unfortunate if [the BRDC] did not have it. I would be disappointed.'