Grapevine: Hill joins Silverstone's 60th party

It was on October 2, 1948, that Luigi Villoresi won the first British Grand Pix at Silverstone - and Hill paid tribute to the efforts of everyone who had kept the track at the forefront of motor racing since then.

"It is testimony to British motorsport that Silverstone is still going strong after 60 years," said Hill, who helped Silverstone's managing director Richard Phillips cut a special birthday cake. "This is largely thanks to the support of fans, competitors, marshals and the motor sport community."

Phillips added: "Silverstone is a unique race circuit, loved by many of the drivers and riders who race here. The greatest names in motor sport have all competed on this track, ranging from Luigi Villoresi who won the first ever Grand Prix in 1948, through to our very own Lewis Hamilton who won this year's British Grand Prix in July.

"There have also been numerous legends of both four and two-wheeled racing in between, and they are all part of Silverstone's rich heritage.

"One such legend is Damon Hill, president of the BRDC and the last British driver to win the Formula One World Championship. We are delighted that Damon was able to join us at Silverstone today to help celebrate 60 years of this fantastic circuit."