BUTTON DRAWS HUGE CROWDS TO AUTOSPORT INTERNATIONAL

Jenson Button, who joins fellow World Champion Lewis Hamilton at McLaren this season, admitted that he had expected a big crowd in Birmingham, but nothing had prepared him for the reception he was given at Autosport International. "It's been so nice," said Button on the Autosport Stage on Saturday. "I've had many months to think about being at Autosport International as World Champion. I obviously had my expectations because I've been to the show before, and it's always been busy. But today was amazing, I was blown away."

Button added. "It's a relaxed atmosphere, and the fans can get close. That's what I really like about the show. There've been some great questions from them, and it's amazing to see their support. The reception today has made me think ahead, and I really can't wait for the British Grand Prix now, and to race in front of them with the number one on the car."

Autosport International drew 85,000 visitors over its four days, and besides Button, there were big crowds for Sir Stirling Moss, Allan McNish, and the Brundles, Martin and son Alex.

There was also full-on entertainment in the 4,700 seat Live Action Arena, with the Group B Audi Sport Quattro of Stig Blomqvist stealing the show. The crowds loved the Fifth Gear 'Dogfight' with Vicki Butler-Henderson taking on Tiff Needell in sportscars. Add in the short-track bikes, the powerful BriSCA Formula One cars, and the figure of eight banger racing, and the show was action-packed.

"This was a very successful show," said Autosport International Show Director Ian France. "Being able to celebrate Jenson Button's World Championship title at the 20th edition of Autosport International was very special, not only for the fans, but for us as the organisers as well."