With just under two months to go until one of Britain's biggest sporting events of the year – the 2006 British Grand Prix, which takes place on 9-11 June – Silverstone is preparing itself for the thousands of Formula One fans that are expected to head for the Northamptonshire based circuit to make the most of free access to the biggest F1 test of the year.

Thousands of fans have traditionally attended the three day test - scheduled this year for 25-27 April – which provides F1 teams with a final opportunity to test tyres, suspension and race set-ups before race day on Sunday 11 June.

Six teams are scheduled to attend during the three days, including Renault, Red Bull, McLaren, Williams, Midland F1 and BMW.

The test provides fans with an ideal opportunity to watch their favourite F1 cars and drivers charging around the track from 09:00 in the morning, through to 17:00 in the evening. Grandstand access* is also free of charge, which is extremely popular with spectators who like to watch all the action from different sections of the circuit, including many of the prime viewing locations that are often sold out when it comes to the Grand Prix itself.

Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, commented, "The F1 test in April always attracts a big crowd, and is extremely popular with younger fans or families who live close to the circuit. It's a great opportunity for anyone who's never been to the British Grand Prix to get a taste of F1. Watching the Formula One season unfold on TV doesn't do the sport justice. Witnessing the noise, colour and sheer excitement of F1 firsthand takes the fans' experience to an entirely new level.

"Fans wanting to come down can just turn up on the day. Silverstone is now one of the easiest circuits to get in and out of in the world, and we have plenty of car parking available for those planning on driving."

* A limited number of grandstands are open to the public at the F1 test.