Formula 1 returns to Silverstone - but with no spectators

Watch Danielle Crawshaw's report:

Formula 1 returns home to Silverstone today, but it'll be a very different race at the Northamptonshire circuit.

For the first time the event will be held behind closed doors due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Silverstone and Formula 1 are asking fans not to travel to the area to avoid compromising the events and to help protect the local community.

Silverstone village would normally be heaving with fans gearing up for what is the highlight on the Formula 1 calendar.

The White Horse, Silverstone Credit: ITV Anglia

But the streets in the village are empty. The local pub, The White Horse estimates an 80 thousand pound loss.

Lewis Hamilton says without spectators it is 'going to super weird'.

Lewis Hamilton's message to fans Credit: ITV Anglia/Lewis Hamilton

With crowds of more than 140,000 last year, it's also a blow for nearby campsites.

Nic Andrews, from Silverstone Farm Campsite said: "It is surreal because usually it's full of hundreds of campers and the atmosphere is brilliant and everybody just has a really good time - it's such a shame"

But organisers say the venue and local area will be closed to those not working at the event and fans should enjoy the events from home.

Silverstone says it's working closely with Northamptonshire Police to control the local roads, footpaths and villages to prevent traffic and individuals from accessing the area.

Similar conditions will be in place the following weekend, when Silverstone hosts the Anniversary Grand Prix, which celebrates the 70th anniversary of F1.