Prince Harry calls for more science and engineering students during Silverstone visit
Prince Harry has visited the Silverstone motor racing circuit to officially mark the start of construction of a British motorsport visitor experience.
Harry, who urged more youngsters to study science, technology and engineering in order to keep Britain a world-leader in the sport, was greeted by staff working on the Silverstone Experience, which is due to be launched in 2019.
He first met with students of Silverstone University Technical College and its alumni who are now successfully working in the motorsport industry, before visiting the hangar where the experience will be installed.
HRH made a short speech before pressing the green light on the start of the construction of the new centre, which will use the latest technology to tell the story of @SilverstoneUK & British motor racing. pic.twitter.com/Obag77apsj
-- Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 7, 2018
A 1948 Formula One car and a Mercedes model set to be used in this year's world championship were on show among other memorabilia - including five medals won by British driver James Hunt.
The project, of which Harry is a patron, is due to open in spring 2019 and is designed to bring the extensive heritage of Silverstone and British motor racing to life.
Officially beginning the construction effort for the experience, Harry said: "When it opens in 14 months' time it will tell the story of Silverstone, the history of British motor racing and the pivotal role which Great Britain plays in motorsport
today.
Prince Harry has made several visits to @SilverstoneUK before. In 1994, he accompanied his mother Diana, Princess of Wales to present the trophy at the Grand Prix. pic.twitter.com/9b2tbGOZ1q
-- Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 7, 2018
"It is well-known that Great Britain is a world leader in high-performance engineering and motor racing engineering in particular - as well as having some great drivers as well.
"But it is no exaggeration to say that unless we encourage more young people to study science, technology, engineering and maths it will be impossible for us to continue to lead in this field."
Speaking of his visit to the college, Harry added: "I'm really encouraged to see the state-of-the-art facilities and equipment in the Silverstone University Technical College.
Prince Harry first met @SilverstoneUTC students, a college located on the side of the famous racing track, which helps 18-14 year olds into careers in High Performance Engineering and Business & Technical Events. pic.twitter.com/RWuN5rh2gS
-- Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 7, 2018
"More significantly, to have met the enthusiastic young people studying there as well as those who have gone on to start their careers with leading employers in the motorsport industry."
Concluding his speech, Prince Harry said: "The Silverstone Experience will be a fascinating and exhilarating visitor attraction, based here at the home of British motor racing.
"I'm sure it will help to engage children in engineering by making that all important connection between their textbooks and the insight into the thrills of motorsport."
