Thursday October 3rd, 2002

The Jordan team began on Wednesday a two-day testing programme at the Silverstone circuit, where they joined Renault to carry out their preparation work for next week's Japanese Grand Prix.

Jordan driver Takuma Sato was the man in charge of driving for the Silverstone-based squad, the Japanese driver completing a total of 62 laps around the British circuit in cool an overcast conditions. Sato set a quickest time of 1:22.50 with the Honda-powered EJ11.

Briton Oliver Gavin was also on track for the Renault team, returning to work with the French squad after standing in for regular driver Jenson Button two weeks ago. Gavin, who was already in action on Tuesday at Silverstone, was hit by engine problems twice during the second day of work, and set a quickest lap of 1:23.51.

"We did have some engine problems today but made some good progress towards our objectives," said Gavin. "Overall I was very pleased with the work carried out and, in the circumstances, with the times we were setting. I'm looking forward to the third day of the programme tomorrow."

Testing at Silverstone will finish today.

Published at 10:33:19 GMT