The former Formula One driver paid particular attention to the Autosport International Show-backed project ‘F1 in Schools’, a scheme which he explained is very close to his heart.“I had a quick look around the show and visited the F1 in Schools stand, which is particularly important to me,” said McNish. ”It’s very different to when we were at school; there is a lot more guidance for kids interested in the motorsport industry than when we were growing up.

“It’s good to see so many options available as well as advice. Through that, a kid might find out he or she wants to be an engineer or a driver, etc and the main thing for me is that at least they get a chance to find out.”

An array of British Touring Car Championship drivers also attended Europe’s largest motorsport show today, celebrating 50 years of the BTCC.

2007 BTCC Champion Fabrizio Giovanardi headed the line-up, which featured his new team-mate double BTCC champion Matt Neal as well as championship rival Jason Plato, Tom Chilton and back-to-back Champion Chris Hodgetts.

“I think touring cars are very successful because it is such close racing,” said Giovanardi. “The people can relate to the cars we drive. They also like accidents and with touring cars, there is much of that!”

Former Formula One driver and ITV-F1 presenter Mark Blundell also attended the show today, making one visitor particularly happy.

“I met Mark Blundell today which is a dream come true,” said visitor David Motterham who works as an MOT tester. “I’ve been coming to the Autosport International Show for 15 years and from experience, I can honestly say there is no better place to go if you want a chance to meet famous racing drivers.”

The show also proved successful for first-time exhibitors KTM. Already the second largest motorcycle manufacturer in Europe, the company chose the show to display their latest project, the X-Bow car.

“We felt the show had the right target audience for us,” said X-Bow Manager UK Jeffrey Lau. “We weren’t disappointed! We received at least 70 strong enquiries of which ten are firm offers. The idea behind the car is that we wanted to give motorbike enthusiasts the experience of four wheels, which is why the car is so reminiscent of our bikes.”

“Each year, we aim to better the previous show,” said Gavin Brown, Haymarket Managing Director. “This year has been no exception and I am extremely pleased to hear such good feedback not only from the public but from exhibitors as well. As ever, we’ll be working hard between now and next year’s show to continue the success of Autosport International for all parties concerned.”