TRIBUTES to the late motorsport legend Jim Clark will be held at Knockhill when the opening Scottish Motor Racing Club event roars into action this weekend.

Sunday's race day, which has the Scottish Classic Sports and Saloon Championship as its main feature, falls on the 50th anniversary of the Formula One great, was also also once of the founding members and leading lights of the SMRC before his death in 1968.

An action-packed day of four-wheel action will include a new feature that will see the nominated class head to the race grid during the lunch break to park up and allow spectator access on the grid for a complimentary grid walk, with the 20-minute open format allowing race fans the unique opportunity to get up close with the cars on track just minutes before their feature race.

A tribute to Clark, a two-time F1 world champion, will then be read out over the circuit's PA system and followed by a round of applause to mark his successes and memory.

In addition, drivers, marshals and officials will carry a special commemorative sticker and a souvenir medal has also been cast for distribution to the racers and all involved.

The event is also the Knockhill armed forces appreciation day, and all serving and veterans of the armed forces will be admitted free of charge, with any accompanying adults enjoying the concessionary price of £10.

SSAFA, the official charity for soldiers, sailors, airmen and their families, will be fundraising on the day, while there will also be an impressive display of military vehicles – stretching back to the 1930s – for fans to view.

Stuart Gray, Knockhill events director, said: "We are looking forward to another exciting season here at Knockhill with the Scottish Motor Racing Club.

"There is a new drive from their committee to improve the whole racing scene in Scotland in all the classes, so we are looking forward to seeing the fruits of their efforts over the off season.

"Sunday will be our fourth Armed Forces Appreciation Day with free admission for the services and with the 50th anniversary tribute to Jim Clark, it all adds up to be a great start to 2018."

Qualifying is from 8.30am with racing beginning at 11am and the action-packed 14 race programme includes Mini Coopers, Legends, Formula Fords, Classics, Modified Sports and Saloons, Ford Fiestas and BMWs.

Adult admission is £15, children under 12 are free and discounted tickets are available via www.knockhill.com.