BBC F1 presenter Jake Humphrey made his racing debut last Saturday (10 October), when he took to the track in the MSVR-run Lotus on Track Elise Trophy at Silverstone.

30-year-old Humphrey stepped out from behind the microphone to show his support for the Go Motorsport initiative, which encourages members of the public to get involved in motor racing.

Having recently passed his ARDS national racing licence test, Jake made his competitive debut in a Lotus Elise Sport that has already been raced this season by former Lotus F1 driver Martin Donnelly and World Land Speed record holder Wing Commander Andy Green OBE.

A full grid of more than 45 production class Lotus Elises lined up at Silverstone and, despite a spin during slippery conditions, Jake qualified in a respectable 31st position for his racing debut.

Drama followed in the 20 minute race, as Humphrey made contact with a spinning car on the opening lap. However, the damage was far from serious and Jake managed to continue - eventually crossing the line in 32nd position.

"It's been a magical journey," he said afterwards. "The whole point for me to get involved was to show people that they really can be a part of motorsport. It's not just this alien Formula One world operating in far-flung exotic locations, which no one can afford; motorsport is on your doorstep.

"It's just great to have been part of such a fantastic club meeting: special people, great cars and a real passion for motorsport," he added.

Jake's progress will be screened as part of the BBC's F1 coverage over the two remaining Grands Prix this season.