IT IS not every day that you get the chance to race around the famous Silverstone track in a Formula One

Budding Michael Schumachers in Kidderminster were given the opportunity to step into the cockpit this week to test their skills and help raise money for Operation Covert.

Malcolm Hill, a 47-year-old currency trader from Yardley, Birmingham, described the experience in the F1 simulator as "incredible".

He said: "It was really, really difficult, a lot harder than I expected. I think it would take me some time to get to understand the feel of the car."

Richard Stevens, 20, from Stoney Lane, Kidderminster, said: "It was fantastic and I think I did pretty well. I have got a special steering wheel with force back at home on my PC so I did have some idea of what it would feel like."

The drivers saw the track through a video monitor, while a large screen let shoppers see just how they were getting on.

Not all people who took to the wheel found the handling as easy as it appeared to look.

Stephen Williams, 34, from Cornwall, said: "It was really difficult. "I think I spent more time on the grass than I did on the track."

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Twelve-year-old Peter Edgell said: "The steering was very sensitive and it was hard to stay on the track. Hopefully, I will be better if I have another go."

The hire of the simulator, owned by Bridgestone UK, was paid for by DTE Motoring Centre, based on Hoo Farm industrial estate in Kidderminster. Drivers paid £1 each with funds raised going to Operation Covert.

A replica of the car that Michael Schumacher raced to the world title in 2003 was also on display outside the Bull Ring in the town centre.