Leading motorsport clothing and technical equipment supplier Grand Prix Racewear (GPR) Ltd has revealed that it has suspended business following 'trading difficulties'.

The company – based at Silverstone circuit for more than 21 years – stocks some 35,000 product lines in car parts and motorsport racewear and accessories, from HANS devices and helmets to fuel and cooling systems, and its logo is famously emblazoned across the helmet of the iconic Stig from cult BBC motoring programme Top Gear.

However, a notice has appeared on the company's website that suggests GPR has been hit hard by the current credit crunch sweeping the globe.

The notice reads: 'Due to recent trading difficulties, GPR are going through a restructuring process. Unfortunately, whilst this is ongoing we are unable to despatch orders; we hope to resolve this and resume normal trading in the very near future.'

An automated message on the company's answer phone adds: 'Unfortunately we have been experiencing trading difficulties and as a result are not currently conducting business.

'Efforts are being made to restructure the business in order to allow trading to resume in the very near future. We are sorry for any inconvenience caused.'

GPR's Silverstone outlet is now empty.