I have just been on a Formula 1 Experience Day at Mallory Park. I was invited to go by ITRS and I had a fantastic time driving a Porsche Cayman and Caterham with an instructor, and then a Vauxhall Lotus and a Formula 1 car on my own.

We met at a nearby hotel the night before and were treated to dinner, where we had a talk from the head instructor and from Mike Wilds.

After breakfast at the hotel the next day, we went to Mallory Park and got changed into our suits and boots. The day then started with a safety briefing, where they told us about the flags that were going to be used and gave us pointers. We were then driven around the race track by an instructor, who showed us the line we needed to take, where we needed to change gear, etc.

We then got to drive a Porsche Cayman, with the instructor giving us tips and marking us on our technique. Next came the Caterham, which was very loud, so the instructors used hand signals to indicate the gears, braking etc.

Then we were allowed to drive the single seaters. First was the Vauxhall Lotus, which we were allowed 10 laps in, and then there was an actual Formula 1 car, which we were allowed 8 laps in.

After that, we were driven around the course for 3 laps each and were shown how it is done by pros.

After a bit of lunch we sorted out some admin, got some gifts and photographs and made our way home.

All together it was an absolutely fantastic day, and I'm so pleased that I was invited. I would recommend it to anyone.

Please look at the photos from the F1 day.