Tickets for the 2011 Formula 1 Santander British Grand Prix are selling fast, with fans snapping up seats in many of the new grandstands.

In 2011, Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and their Formula 1 rivals will be based in Silverstone’s new pit and paddock complex, due for completion in May.

They will also line up on a new starting grid next year, on the International Pits Straight between Club Corner and Abbey.

Race-goers have been quick to purchase tickets in the new International Pits Straight grandstand and all 4,500 tickets have been sold.

Tickets in the new grandstand at Abbey are also selling fast. From 2011, Abbey becomes Turn 1 of the British Grand Prix, which takes place on July 8-10, and only a limited number of seats are still available in this grandstand overlooking the crucial first corner and new start/finish straight.

The grandstands at Club Corner and Becketts are also new and improved for 2011.

Club Corner now becomes the final corner on the circuit where the covered grandstand, in a new, elevated position, will provide views of the start / finish straight, pit lane entry and the pit lane itself. It is also the prime location to watch the drivers celebrating on the podium after the race.

The repositioned and elevated grandstand at Becketts was a revelation in 2010. Improved site-lines provided fantastic views of Maggotts Curve, through Becketts, and down to Stowe, as well as overlooking the new section of circuit through Farm Curve, Village and Aintree. In 2011, Becketts will be a covered grandstand.

The 2010 circuit changes have also enabled Silverstone to create new viewing areas for general admission ticket holders. In 2011, fans will be able to gain access to the inside of the Brooklands / Priory Complex, where enhanced, trackside views will be available.

Richard Phillips, managing director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, said: “The 2010 Formula 1 season has reignited people’s passion for the sport.

"We are already looking forward to 2011 and another exciting season. Interest in the British Grand Prix has been high, with tickets selling well.

"There are still plenty of tickets available, but some of the more popular grandstands have already sold out, including International Pits Straight and one or two sections in the Copse and Stowe grandstands.

“Changes to the circuit and moving the F1 paddock have also given us an opportunity to rethink some of the viewing areas for general admission ticket holders.

"For 2011, we will be opening up the inside of the Brooklands / Priory Complex, creating new spectator areas and getting fans much closer to the track.”