RACING was back in earnest at Knockhill Racing Circuit on Sunday – and spectators returned to watch for the first time in more than a year.

On a landmark day for Scotland's national motorsport venue, a bumper 13-race programme lined up on the grid for round one of the Scottish Motor Racing Club (SMRC) Scottish Championship Car Racing.

Local drivers were joined by others across the UK as the Avon Tyres National Formula Ford Championship and the Darlington and District Northern Saloon and Sports Car Championship was held alongside the SMRC races.

With Fife having moved into level one of the Scottish Government's protection levels, crowds were permitted to attend, which had been limited initially to 250. However, last Wednesday, circuit bosses announced that up to 1,000 would be admitted to the 25,000 capacity venue, and those lucky enough to have a ticket were treated to a fine day's racing.

Topping the bill were two Formula Ford races, the second of which was for the David Leslie Trophy.

Chris Middlehurst claimed the prize, which was presented by Scottish Formula Ford veteran Colin Turner, who is currently recovering from a horrific race crash at Silverstone in November.

In the Scottish Formula Ford part, reigning champion Jordan Groncowski bagged a double first, while Dunfermline's Michael Gray impressed with two runners-up spots.

Debutant Andrew Elliott placed third in the first race, while Neil Broome took that podium position in the Davie Leslie Trophy race.

This weekend sees a first for Knockhill as the BRSCC (British Racing and Sports Car Club) brings its Caterham racing festival to the circuit.

The maiden event, featuring 270R, 310R 420R, Roadsports and Academy Caterham cars, and seven championships, will be backed up by the Nankang BMW Compact Cup XR-ST Challenge.

It will be held over both Saturday and Sunday and, for more information and tickets, visit www.knockhill.com, or take a look at their Facebook page.