Essential Reading for December 31st, 2008

Recommended links for December 31st, 2008:

• Economy the winner if F1 comes to Donington – Economic benefits of the F1 British Grand Prix coming to Donington Park will outweigh any negative noise impact on neighbouring communities, a report claims.

  In a report to go before the authority's environmental committee 48 hours before D-day, Mark Alflat, director of community services, recommends support for the project. He says: "The development offers substantial economic opportunities. The Grand Prix has the potential to attract both visitor spend and inward investment. New facilities, along with associated developments, will create substantial construction employment opportunities."

• Times are tough on the circuit, says F1 hopeful – Formula One hopeful Jonathan Kennard believes motorsport’s top teams are worried to invest in drivers following Honda’s dramatic departure from the sport.

  "I was delighted to be called back by Williams to do another test. It was very similar work to the one I did before, but is shows that they thought I did a good job which can only boost me as a driver."

  "The Williams tests have certainly boosted the interest in me for next season and I am in talks with a number of people. However, we will just have to wait and see what the long term effects are with the economic crisis.”

• Hamilton MBE a ‘massive honour’ – Lewis Hamilton said he felt "humbled" after being made an MBE in the Queen's New Year Honours.

  "It is a massive honour and incredible privilege to receive an MBE from Her Majesty the Queen," said Hamilton.

  "It is the most amazing culmination to what has been quite a year for me and something I am very appreciative of."