[Metroman]

Interestingly, the discussion seems to centre around falling entries but it is the falling spectator attendance we should be most worried about. In the last 35 years, I have noted that, in the North East, we lose about 10% of the competitor base and a similar number of marshals each year.
In order to maintain a static number we need to recruit both competitors and marshals. And where do they come from? Off the spectator bank.
Unless the Circuits, and it is their responsibility, start to realise this and promote ALL meetings as effectively as Castle Combe has, then Circuit Racing will very quickly return to the 'Gentleman's Sport' (ie only the weathly) it once was - and it will be all the sadder for it.
Gate staff have to be employed anyway as there will always be a few diehards. Surely it is better that they be fully employed all day selling tickets. Create promotions such as MINI driver gets in free, passengers pay or a two for one. Increase the gate to 1000 (profit for event increases), better atmosphere therefore more people come next time (even bigger profit).
Am I being nieve?