Grapevine: Hamilton helps launch Go Motorsport

The initiative is designed to stimulate greater interest in the sport and show a wider public audience "how easy it can be to become involved at all levels whether as a competitor, spectator, official or trackside marshal".

The Motor Sports Association, the governing body of motor sport in the UK, is funding the £250,000 project.

"It gives me great pleasure to attend the launch of the Go Motorsport campaign which is a great initiative by the MSA to attract more people into motor sport," said Hamilton during the event, which took place at the McLaren Technology Centre.

"While Formula One is the pinnacle there are many other classes of motor sport of which people are not aware. They don't realise that there is such a depth and variety to the sport - particularly in the UK.

"I am happy to see an initiative such as Go Motorsport raising awareness of the thousands of events around the country and showing people that there is something for all tastes, ages and budgets."

Go Motorsport has attracted a star line-up of backers, including Jenson Button, David Coulthard and Anthony Davidson, Damon Hill, Frank Williams and Andy Priaulx among others.

MSA Chairman Alan Gow added: "This is a hugely important initiative and has already received great support and enthusiasm not only from many of the most famous names in UK motor sport but also from all others involved in the sport such as circuit owners, championship organisers, drivers, teams and clubs across all disciplines.

"We are extremely proud to have Lewis Hamilton launch Go Motorsport - he's an inspiration to many and we hope this initiative will help many of those that have been inspired by the achievements of Lewis and other drivers to get involved with the sport."

More information about the scheme can be found at www.gomotorsport.net