NIGEL MANSELL returns to Brands Hatch this weekend as a prelude to the World Touring Car Championship which is making its only visit to the UK.

Mansell, who had his first ever F1 victory at Brands in 1985, will complete several demonstration laps of the full 2.6 mile Grand Prix circuit in a BMW M3 GTR.

The car was used by reigning World Touring Car champion and current leader Andy Priaulx to win last year’s Nurburgring 24 hour race.

Mansell said: "It will be very special to be reunited with one of the greatest Grand Prix circuits in the world."

Priaulx heads the WTCC following its opening four rounds in Italy and France.

The event is awash with former British Touring Car champions, including exciting French racer Yvan Muller and SEAT’s James Thompson.

A packed out grid, which includes former F1 drivers Nicola Lar and Gianni Morbidelli, will ensure there is plenty of close and exciting racing, with 35 cars lining up to compete.