McLaren team boss Martin Whitmarsh has paid homage to Donington owner Tom Wheatcroft, after the 87-year-old died on Saturday.
Wheatcroft, the man who revived Donington Park as a racing venue, passed away yesterday after a long illness. Whitmarsh hailed Wheatcroft as a 'larger-than-life character' and a legend.
"The term 'legend' is maybe used a little too liberally in the world of sport, but without doubt it is justified in the case of Tom Wheatcroft," said Whitmarsh. "A tank driver as a young man during World War Two, he was a larger-than-life character and an always-engaging conversationalist, but he was also an able and successful businessman who contributed a lot more than many people perhaps appreciate to the story of motorsport in Britain. He will, of course, be very much missed.
"So, on behalf of all at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, I would like to convey to his large family and his many friends our sincere condolences at this very sad time."