MOTORSPORTS commentator Chris Dawes is now in the driving seat for a brand new venture – voicing e-sports.

Though usually providing commentary for motorsports races, the lockdown has caused all live sporting events to be cancelled and Swindon-based Chris's usual work has dried up.

But it has also led to a rise in the popularity of e-sports, which are competitive video games played over the internet.

So Chris was delighted to be signed up to commentate on simulated car races online either on his own or with a director.

He said: “In some ways the discipline is the same. I do a lot of research into the participants so I know as much as I can about them, and use my usual style of commentary, which is that of being a really enthusiastic motorsports fan and remembering that it is also entertainment.

“It’s really enjoyable and we have some fantastic participants.

"We have professional motorsports drivers and champions taking part, including the likes of BTCC, GT and Sportscars, and even F1 drivers joining in.

“Sim racing has a massive following and the computer graphics are incredible, so it is very much like watching a live race from the commentary box but able to see absolutely everything for a change.”

He began his commentating career at Castle Combe Circuit and now commentates at circuits throughout the UK and across Europe, including Silverstone, Brands Hatch, Donington Park, Snetterton, Oulton Park, and Cadwell Park.

His expert commentary has been heard on TV broadcasts and live internet world feeds.

Last year Downforce Radio, a station dedicated to motorsport, named Chris as its motorsports Commentator of the Year.

In 2018, he was runner up Commentator of the Year, in annual awards run by Motorsport Media, which broadcasts Motorsport Radio.

Alongside this, Chris runs public speaking and presentation training company Open Dawes Training, which is now offering its training online.

Plus, he provides media training for sportspeople, is a voiceover artist, and a business and lifestyle events host.

And he is still keeping his hand in with Castle Combe Circuit, by hosting Combe TV, a twice weekly TV chat show on Facebook and YouTube, where he interviews famous and local racing drivers and others involved in the sport or circuit. To watch this show, visit https://www.facebook.com/castlecombecircuit/live