AN Otley man will play an integral role in this week's Chinese Grand Prix, which will be the 1,000 race for Formula One.

Steve Stringwell, who is a driving instructor in Otley, has once again been appointed as one of three race stewards for the Chinese Grand Prix, which will be held on Sunday at the Shanghai International Circuit.

"As it's the 1,000 race, it's a bit special," said Stringwell.

The race will be the third round of this year's Formula One Championship series, but Stringwell was pragmatic about his busy role of officiating for the event.

"It's just another race," said Stringwell. "Who knows what will happen? I go into it with an open mind."

“In race control you have to analyse incidents when they arise. You must not let personalities interfere with your job which is to follow the letter of the law.

Stringwell also spoke about the recent death of Formula One race director Charlie Whiting, who died at the age of 66 of an embolism while at the Australian Grand Prix.

"It came as a shock to us all," said Stringwell. "He had a wealth of knowledge about Formula One. He was a good friend and will be missed."