The British Grand Prix has been saved - but will move from Silverstone to Donington Park in 2010, Bernie Ecclestone has announced.

The Formula One supremo dropped his bombshell at the Northamptonshire circuit that will stage its final race next year after being a permanent fixture since 1987.

Ecclestone, President of Formula One Management, said: "Finally the uncertainty is over.

"A contract has been signed with Donington Park and the future of the British Grand Prix is now secure."

The news will come as a bitter blow for the British Racing Drivers' Club which owns Silverstone, as it has long been in detailed talks with Ecclestone over a new deal.

He has continually expressed unhappiness at the facilities at the track, although many believe it is far from the worst on the calendar.

But the 77-year-old has made it plain over the years the circuit is in need of drastic improvement, otherwise it would be axed.

Earlier this year, Silverstone's owners finally acquired planning permission to build a new £30 million pit and paddock complex, that would be the first phase of a multi-million pound redevelopment plan.

However, it is now clear Ecclestone's patience has run out and after recently confirming he was in discussions with Donington Park, the East Midlands venue has now won the rights to host the British GP with a ten-year agreement.

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