... says champion Neal

Reigning Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Champion Matt Neal says while his record at the Knockhill circuit isn’t one of his best, the Scottish track still has a place in his heart because of the unique reaction from the race day crowds.

Team Halfords driver Neal will arrive at Knockhill on 3 September leading the standings and on course for an historic second consecutive title. And he says the noise from the spectator banks around the Fife venue creates an atmosphere that the drivers in Britain’s top motor racing series probably don’t experience anywhere else during the season.

“Knockhill is just very different from anywhere else we go,” said Neal. “You’re either going uphill or downhill or popping over the kerbs. There’s nowhere to take a rest.

“It’s where the cars are probably at their most spectacular all year and it’s also the circuit where the fans are closest to the track. It doesn’t matter if they’re cheering or booing you – it’s electric inside the car. Even when you’re concentrating on the race, you can still feel the roar.

“A good spot for the spectators is the first corner, where you can see down into the next series of bends and up to the chicane which is another great spot because the cars get airborne.

”I’d also pick out the hairpin as a good place to watch – you’re very close to the action there. It’s just a great track all the way around for the crowds.”

Admission to Knockhill's BTCC race day is FREE for children aged eight and under, while information on tickets for adults is available by calling the circuit on 01383 723337.

In addition to the BTCC's three rounds on Sunday, there will be another eight races put on by a variety of supporting championships from BMW, Porsche, SEAT, Formula Ford and Caterham.