With the contract to save next year's British Grand Prix virtually signed and sealed, world champion Jenson Button has been the first to express his delight at the deal.

The British GP's future has been in doubt ever since Donington Park failed to come up with the necessary funds to pay F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone.

However, if reports are to be believed, then the race will take place at Silverstone next year following months of negotiations between the British Racing Drivers' Club and Ecclestone.

Button admits he is over the moon that the Formula One roadshow will be making a stop in Britain next year.

"It's fantastic news not only for British fans but for the sport as a whole," he is quoted in the Daily Mail. "A season without the British Grand Prix was unthinkable.

"On a personal level it means a huge amount as I now know I'll be racing in the UK as part of my title defence, which I cannot wait for."