Hamilton takes Gold Star

The star, which was first awarded in 1929, is the most prestigious prize in British Motorsport and is awarded by Silverstone's owners the British Racing Drivers' Club to the driver that has done best in international motorsport over the season.

The 22-year-old McLaren driver's four wins and six pole positions in Formula One saw him win the award with 266 points. He joins a list of famous past winners, who include Stirling Moss, Jackie Stewart and Nigel Mansell.

IRL IndyCar champion Dario Franchitti came second while sportscar hero Allan McNish was third after winning his third American Le Mans Series title.

Also awarded was the BRDC Silver Star award, presented to the best British performer competing nationally.

It went, for a record third time, to Jason Plato, who finished as runner-up in the British Touring Car Championship. Fellow BTCC drivers Matt Neal and Colin Turkington were second and third.

Both Hamilton and Plato will receive their prizes at the BRDC awards dinner in London in December.