A DEAL to secure the future of Donington Park is "very close" according to its owners.

The Wheatcroft family confirmed the likely sale of the circuit's lease in the near future as it praised fans for their support.

Kevin Wheatcroft has been in talks with several potential buyers for the lease, which became available after the previous holder, Donington Ventures Leisure Limited, went under in November owing millions when it lost the right to host Formula 1 racing.

The firm, run by Simon Gillett, had already started digging up parts of the circuit for F1 and left it in an unusable state.

Mr Wheatcroft said: "We are still in negotiations with a new leaseholder but an announcement is not far away and we are very happy with the way things have been going.

"In the meantime, we have been working hard to try to give fans a memorable day on March 7, after they selected it to show their support for the circuit."

More than 2,000 people are expected to attend the event, which was the idea of motor enthusiast Lee Coombs, who urged fans to demonstrate their backing for the track.

Mr Coombs set up a support group on Facebook when Donington Ventures Leisure Limited went into administration.

The Save Donington group on the website now has more than 5,500 members and Mr Coombs, who lives in Oxford, is now urging even more people to get involved in the Save Donington support day on March 7.

Mr Coombs has met with Kevin Wheatcroft to arrange a major car and bike club display, an autojumble with different car parts for sale, children's rides, a rescue demonstration and a classic vehicle show.

Visitors on the day will also get reduced entry to the museum and track viewings are being set up.

Mr Wheatcroft said he had been "amazed" by the response to Mr Coombs' internet campaign site.

He said: "We got him up to the park and talked about how we could work to make the day a success and worthwhile for everyone who comes along.

"We think that, with publicity, this could become a very big event indeed and are very touched by the heartfelt feelings fans have for the circuit."

Mr Coombs said the event was more about supporting Donington Park, rather than saving it after the positive news from the Wheatcroft family.

He said: "But it is still vital that people continue to spread the word and mark March 7 on their calendars.

"It's turned into a major event, with displays and TV and radio interest.

"I'm hoping to encourage members of various car and bike clubs to attend, with an offer of a designated area for their vehicles to be displayed.

"We also wish to hear from any marshalls who are willing to help out on the day."

Support for the return of Donington Park to a racing venue continues to grow on the internet.

For more information about how to get involved in the rally, please visit www.savedonington.co.uk