The British Grand Prix could be disrupted this weekend by protestors as police warn that any such action could "jeopardise lives".
A huge crowd is expected at Silverstone this weekend as the Formula 1 circus returns for its annual visit. More than 400,000 people are expected to come through the gates over the course of the weekend, but officers believe there will be a few who have not made the trip just to watch the racing action.
Northamptonshire Police have warned that there is a threat from protestors this weekend who could use the high-profile event to reach a large audience. In a statement the concerned event commander, Chief Inspector Tom Thompson, said he was worried about a track invasion.
"We have received credible intelligence that a group of protestors are planning to disrupt the event and possibly invade the track on race day," he said. "First of all, I want to appeal directly to this group of people and strongly urge you to not put yourselves, the drivers, as well as the many marshals, volunteers and members of the public, at risk.
"Going onto a live racetrack is extremely dangerous – if you go ahead with this reckless plan you are jeopardising lives. Protesting is of course everyone's human right in this country and we are more than happy to speak with you to help you facilitate a peaceful protest at the circuit, we just please ask that you do not create a situation that puts lives in danger."
Thompson went on to ask those attending the festivities this weekend "to be extra vigilant" and to report anything that could lead to a security concern to the police. The FIA is aware of the threat of protestors, but declined to comment amid ongoing police work.
The British Grand Prix is no stranger to disruption, having been targeted before by those looking to use it as a platform to get their message across. Most recently, four Extinction Rebellion members sneaked into the behind-closed-doors 2020 race to show off a banner before the start of the action.
And in 2003, priest Cornelius Horan managed to gain access to the track and sprinted down the Hangar Straight during the race, wearing an orange skirt and waving a message urging people to "read the Bible". Drivers were forced to swerve to avoid hitting him before the safety car was deployed.
Eventually, he was tackled by a marshal who dragged him along the grass and away from the danger of the track. Horan later pleaded guilty to aggravated trespass and given a two-month prison sentence.
