2001 Grand Prix Party heralds new season.

What was billed as the new curtain raiser for the 2001 F1 season took place last night at the Royal Albert Hall in London, and early signs are that it will raise over ?100,000 for the Brain and Spine Foundation.

F1 ring master Bernie Ecclestone said: "Grand Prix Racing has reached new heights in the last decade and after the excitement of the 2000 season Formula One followers are already looking forward to another year of excitement. The Grand Prix Party will be a curtain-raiser to the new season."

The party was attended by an array of Formula One stars including Nigel Mansell, Murray Walker, Damon Hill, Eddie Irvine, and Jackie Stewart.

Also in attendance was pop group Five, Gabrielle, Jools Holland and his Rhythm band and Chris Rea.

The evening hosted by Tony Jardine and Carol Vorderman, was hyped as one of "stars, cars and guitars". Carol Vorderman star of Channel 4's Countdown and Better Homes said: "I am delighted to be here. I am a big F1 fan. I went to my very first Grand Prix last year and I also went to Monza which was fantastic."

She added: "This party will see the first "Bernies" - the Oscars for F1. Awarded to those people who have achieved something special in Formula One."

Professor Sid Watkins added: "I think the idea of having a Grand Prix Party in aid of the Brain and Spine Foundation is brilliant. With backing from Bernie Ecclestone and the F1 drivers it will be a wonderful event. The money raised will help our patients and families."

Peter Hamlyn of the Brain and Spine foundation said the charity faced three challenges. One: getting to the public. Two: training doctors and nurses at a local level and three: changing the structure of the health service.

Neurological disorders affect over 300 million sufferers worldwide and there are some 15 million new victims a year from head injuries alone. Of those suffering from neurological problems only 5% ever see a proper specialist.