MSA Chief Heaps Praise on British GP

British Motor Sports Association (MSA) chief executive Colin Hilton has praised the efforts of British Grand Prix organisers Octagon Motorsports after branding this year's event as "one of the best ever".

Hilton said that the Grand Prix ran smoothly at Silverstone and said that the MSA, the governing body of British motorsport, are focused on making the event the best on the Formula One calendar.

"An incredible amount of work has been carried out over the past year to ensure that everything ran smoothly at Silverstone," Hilton said. "We are happy to say our early feedback indicates that the revisions initiated by all those involved had a significant contribution to what has been widely acknowledged as the one of best ever British Grand Prix meetings.

"A strong and committed partnership between the BRDC, Octagon Motorsports, the MSA and several government agencies has already achieved real progress. It is now up to us all to maintain the impetus and ensure the British Grand Prix becomes a benchmark event within the FIA Formula One World Championship."

Hilton also heaped praise on more than 600 volunteer marshals and helpers who helped make this year's event a 'successful operation'.

"It should not be underestimated how important these volunteers are to the successful operation of any motor sport event and particularly the British Grand Prix," Hilton added.

"Their tremendous commitment last weekend - and throughout the motor sport year - guarantees the efficient organisation of not only world championship events but also club level motor sport throughout the UK."

Hilton's comments come two days after Octagon Motorsports boss Rob Bain resigned from his post following comments from Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone, who heavily criticised the organisation of the British Grand Prix.