HAMPSHIRE enjoyed an estimated seven-figure cash boost thanks to the first staging of the British Motocross Grand Prix near Winchester.

About 39,000 people visited Matterley Basin near Cheesefoot Head last weekend to enjoy the racing.

Organisers were delighted by the success of the event which had hung in the balance after problems securing planning permission from Winchester City Council.

Planners were unhappy about proposed alterations to the chalk downland but a compromise was thrashed out with days to spare.

Promoter Steve Dixon said: "Bringing this event to my home town is a dream come true and I can't quite believe how many people have come it has been absolutely brilliant and I'm hoping for the same support for September's MX of Nations."

The estimated £3.5m windfall is based on the money spectators and teams would have spent in shops, pubs, restaurants and hotels during the weekend.

The Mayor of Winchester, Sue Nelmes, took to the stage to present the MX2 winner David Philippaerts with his cup.

She said: "An occasion of this scale can only be a positive thing for the area, bringing in thousands of people and firmly putting us on the international map.

"I'm so proud to have this event in Winchester and it's been such a thrill to be on the podium."

The track at Matterley Basin, designed by famous track designer Johnny Douglas Hamilton, was praised by riders as the demanding jumps and corners made for exciting racing.

The venue also proved popular with spectators because it gave them a fantastic view of the track from wherever they stood.

The venue impressed Giuseppe Luongo, president of Youthstream, which promotes the Motocross World Championships and the Supermoto. He described Matterley Basin as providing a thrilling experience.

"It's a beautiful place to hold this event," he added.

See our galley of pictures from the event by clicking HERE