Commenting on today's news that a deal has been agreed to keep the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, Cllr Jim Harker, Leader of Northamptonshire County Council, said: "Securing the British Grand Prix at Silverstone is excellent news for the county and I'm absolutely delighted with this decision. The County Council has been working closely with Silverstone and I'm very pleased that this work has been such a success, long may it continue.

"Having such a high profile event in Northamptonshire is great for motorsport, great for county people and fantastic for the local economy, bringing benefits all round.

"Northamptonshire is increasingly being recognised as the home of British motorsport and the recent success from the Brawn GP team shows that we are continually achieving highly in this area, with numerous automotive industry companies basing themselves here and a local skills base second to none.

"There's no doubt that Silverstone is an excellent, world-class venue and the Grand Prix belongs here. The county council looks forward to playing a part in furthering its future success and growth."

7th December 2009