MATT Hammond cracked out the champagne after securing a podium finish at the home of British Formula 1 racing.

The 35-year-old managed to hold on to second after a tight finish at Silverstone in the penultimate race in the Power Maxed Mini Challenge series.

Hammond led the entire race until his new rubber started to fade after pushing so hard at the beginning.

But, with a few corners remaining and only one car veering past Hammond, the Salisbury racer held onto second.

This position puts Hammond fifth overall in the standings but silver is still mathematically possible.

He said: “I knew as soon as they tagged onto the back of my car it was going to be hard, cars were on two wheels and my wing mirror was bent backwards.”

“I can’t wait to get out at Brands Hatch GP for the last race meeting of the season with my team ExcelR8.”

Visit www.matthammond-motorsport.co.uk for more information.