South Shields Formula One legend Sir Frank Williams is admitted to hospital

Sir Frank established the Williams Formula One team in 1977 and it went on to win nine Constructors' Championships over the next 20 years.

A statement issued on behalf of the team earlier this week read: "Sir Frank Williams has recently been admitted to hospital where he is currently in a stable condition.

"Frank's medical condition is a private matter and therefore the family will not be releasing any further details at this time.

"We will ask you to respect the family's privacy. The team will release a further update in due course."

Sir Frank, who was born in South Shields in 1942 and raised in Jarrow before attending private school in Scotland, has used a wheelchair since being injured in a car accident in France in 1986.

He stepped down from the board of Williams F1 in 2012 and ceased to have any involvement in the team in September this year following its sale to Dorilton Capital.

Among the famous drivers to have raced for Williams during his time in charge were Britain's Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill, David Coulthard and Jenson Button as well as Brazil's late Ayrton Senna.

Support your Gazette and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest football stories and new puzzles every day.

With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content.

Click here to subscribe.