Bernie defends Silverstone criticisms

"My complaint was not that a helicopter in which I was travelling could not land at Silverstone, because in fact, that was a blessing," Ecclestone said. "If not, I wouldn't have seen the issues I criticised.



"My comment to Mr Bain was why not put up large signs as they have in shopping malls, indicating where you are, where entrance and exits are and other points spectators wish to find - such as toilets, vending machine sites, stalls and meeting points?



"I understand that he did not resign because of my comments but because of comments from his employer, Octagon, over a much longer period.

"As my fist visit to the track was in 1948 I have seen the progress since then. I raced in the support event for the first grand prix of the F1 championship at Silverstone in 1950 when I slept in my car the night before to ensure I would be there.



"I checked the new road access with Jackie Stewart on the Friday before this year's race and was happy with what had been achieved. My complaint is that not much had been done inside the circuit and in the public areas.



"I did not say anything about the British round of the FIA World Championship not taking place in the future because we have a 10-year contract with the promoter, Octagon. I did say that if I had to sign the contract, I would think twice about doing so.



"I have been surprised by the amount of support I have received for my observations. It seems there are a lot of other people who understand the problem. I am happy to be criticised when I am wrong but not in the defence of the paying public.

"The positive side is that thanks to the persistence of Jackie Stewart and Max Mosley with financial help from the British Racing Drivers Club, Octagon and Formula One Management we now have the roads and access that we really needed."