Motor racing hero Lewis Hamilton was welcomed to Oxford with cheers, kisses and even a marriage proposal yesterday.

About 800 fans queued to meet the 21-year-old Formula 1 star at a book signing of his autobiography, My Story, at Borders, in Magdalen Street.

But dozens were left disappointed when the bookshop announced that the McLaren driver would have to cut short his visit.

Terry Pearce, 40, of Bicester, who was at the front of the queue, made sure he did not miss out by arriving at 10.15am.

He said: "We thought it would be a really big queue so I brought jumpers and food but I didn't need them because the book signing was indoors.

"I like Lewis a lot, he's brought so much to the sport and it is good to see a British driver doing so well."

Mr Pearce's sister, Tonia Foster, 43, also from Bicester, was second in the queue.

She said: "I love him because he's absolutely gorgeous. It's been a lot of fun waiting and talking to the other fans.

"When I see him I'm going to propose. I have a boyfriend, who is into motor racing as well, but I'm sure he won't mind."

Also near the front of the queue was Lewis Doyle, also from Bicester, who celebrated his 21st birthday by meeting his idol yesterday.

He said: "It's brilliant I can't believe I've had this opportunity to meet him on my birthday."

His mother, Barbara Doyle, 44, from Bicester, said: "I was wondering what would be a good birthday present and this is perfect. I've been reserving my son a place in the queue since 11am this morning."

The Formula One star, who came second in his debut Grand Prix season this year, arrived shortly before 4.30pm and was taken into a back room.

He was greeted with cheers and wolf whistles by many of his female admirers.

Amy Pearson, 18, travelled from Bath and arrived in Oxford to join the queue at 12.30pm.

She said: "I've never been to a book signing before, but I just love Formula 1 and I love Lewis even more."

Shortly before Lewis Hamilton made his appearance, Borders announced not everybody would get the chance to meet him.

Pensioner Ben Morris, of Headington, Oxford, was given Lewis Hamilton's autobiography for his 85th birthday last Saturday and hoped to get it signed.

But he was one of dozens of fans who didn't get to meet their hero.

He said: "I am very disappointed. They have missed a publicity opportunity, they should of had an 85-year-old man in pole position."

Also missing out was Paul Barnicoatok, 60, from North Oxford, who had taken his grandson Charleyok to the store to meet his idol.

Mr Barnicoat said: "My grandson loves motor racing and to miss seeing someone like Lewis Hamilton has made him so upset.

"And it's not just him, there are dozens of other kids who were let down. You should see their faces - they are devastated."