Unlucky Sam battles back at Silverstone

The 18-year-old returning to racing this season after taking time out to concentrate on his studies, suffered gearbox problems during qualifying and he had to start from the back of the grid.

But with his front-wheel drive Class C 2.0 litre Fiesta ST fixed for race day, he staged a fantastic comeback, fighting his way from last to eighth in the opening race.

He was also comfortably on for another top-ten in the second race, before one of his rivals made contact damaging the steering.

“It is very pleasing to be given that award and I want to thank the BRSCC for awarding me with it,” said Sammy.

“It was very unfortunate to have a significant gear change issue on Saturday because the times we were doing on Friday in practice would have put us fourth on the grid, no problem.

“We were consistently lapping at the 1m 20s on Friday and that was with old tyres on. But the races were very promising.”

“Overall, while the weekend was obviously disappointing, we showed a lot of promise and given more time on the track, or if I started further forward, I can stay with the front runners. I am quick enough to do that.

“We now have the pace and moving forward to Rockingham next month I will be at the front. I promise that,”