FORMULA One boss Bernie Ecclestone and racing legend Sir Stirling Moss have backed the return of the British Grand Prix back to Brands Hatch, a move that would boost the county's economy.

But they say that the facilities have to be right.

Mr Ecclestone, a multi-millionaire who first raced a Norton motorcycle at the newly surfaced circuit in March 1950, said he would be happy to see it back at the Kent circuit.

Brands Hatch has been plagued by planning obstacles and its future as a racing circuit remains in doubt after owner Interpublic put it and three other circuits up for sale.

"If we get the facilities we want, I don't mind where it is," Mr Ecclestone said. Moss said that if the infrastructure could handle it, he would like to see the Grand Prix at Brands Hatch.

Kent business leaders have repeatedly said that Brands Hatch is an important feature of the county economy.

They want it to remain a racing circuit and say that restoration of the grand prix would generate huge revenue for the county.

Kent County Council also wants to retain the circuit as part of a new strategy to attract more big sporting events following the success of the Open golf championship in Sandwich this summer and the Tour de France in 1994.