Hill still hopes British GP can be saved

Damon Hill is "hopeful" a deal can be agreed with Bernie Ecclestone that will see the British Grand Prix remain at Silverstone.

With Donington Park's bid "over" according to Ecclestone, attention again now turns to Silverstone, the race's home for the last 23 years.

Simon Gillett, the chief executive of Donington Ventures Leisure Limited, still has until midnight to raise the £135million needed to turn his circuit into a venue fit to host the grand prix. That is despite the fact DVLL stated on Friday that the deadline was noon on Monday to remedy a breach of contract with Ecclestone.

Ecclestone, though, is currently in negotiations with Silverstone, and has wasted no time in applying pressure by insisting there will be no cut-price deal.

It is understood Silverstone chiefs are dismayed the contract on the table is the one they stalled on signing last year, which allowed Gillett and Donington to step in.

Ecclestone is "optimistic" Silverstone will accept, although an apparent percentage increase year on year of the fee was the stumbling block then, and remains the case now.

British Racing Drivers' Club president Hill told The Guardian: "I am hopeful something can be resolved. There is a good chance we can sort something out soon."