Donington Park's owners Wheatcroft and Son Ltd have begun legal proceedings against the track's operators Donington Ventures Ltd in an attempt to recover £2.5m in rent arrears they say they are owed.

The company, which is run by Kevin Wheatcroft and his legendary father Tom, began proceedings today at Derby County Court which also ask for the lease to be declared forfeit.

Kevin Wheatcroft said: “It is with great reluctance that we have taken this decision. Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd owe us nearly £2.5m in rent dating back to September 2008. Despite receiving numerous reassurances over a number of months they have consistently failed to meet their financial obligations under the terms of the lease.

"We have held off taking legal action for as long as possible but have been left with no choice but to commence proceedings to recover the outstanding rent and forfeit the lease.”
Wheatcroft & Son Limited awarded Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd  a 150-year lease back in January 2007. Donington Park, has since been awarded a ten-year contract to host the British Grand Prix from 2010.