The showcase event may have been DTM at Brands Hatch last Sunday but, judging by the rapturous reception he was given, it was clear that many in the crowd were also there to see Lewis Hamilton.
The world champion doesn't get too many opportunities to perform in front of his home crowd, with notable exceptions being the Santander British Grand Prix and the Goodwood Festival of Speed, so he relished the chance to get up close and personal with the many thousands who packed the grandstands and grass banking for a bumper dose of motorsport entertainment.
As a guest of Mercedes-Benz for the afternoon, Lewis was able to squeeze in some C63AMG taxi rides around the undulating Indy circuit and took time out to meet and chat to fans before signing autographs.
Lewis said: "Brands Hatch was always one of my favourite circuits to race at when I was competing in Formula Renault and Formula 3 so it's always great to get back and visit. It's always fantastic to get to meet the British fans - they are the most passionate and knowledgeable in the whole world and always make me feel welcome.
"It was also great to see that Mercedes-Benz gave the home crowd something to cheer about after Paul di Resta won his first race of the season with Mercedes. DTM is all about the crowds and they always put on an excellent show. Visiting the series at Brands has become a regular on my calendar each summer and, I must say, I had an another fantastic day there on Sunday."
