Motorsport welcomes spectators but it has a responsibility towards them and this is where marshals play a vital role.

Remember that some spectators may be new to the sport and may need educating about the risks.

The best way to get people to do what you want is by example. If marshals are badly parked, if they're clearly there just to get a good view, if they just stand chatting and - even worse - smoking.... and with a camera... or with a dog.... well, they can't expect to command the respect of spectators or get co-operation.

Most people respond positively if they're politely informed of what's happening. It's the officious marshal who tells someone curtly that "you can't go there" who creates problems and provokes a hostile response.

The message should be "if you go there, be careful because..." or "you might be better going this way because..."

A marshal needs to show that he or she understands why a spectator feels strongly about something - actively listening can make people less defensive.

Body language can help too. The way you walk up to people, your stance, your expression and eye contact can make all the difference between hostility and cooperation from spectators, in any branch of the sport but rallying above all. It's the marshal who strides up glowering with arms folded, and is curt, who provokes hostility and fails to get cooperation.