Motor racing star Dean Smith capped off a stunning 2009 in perfect style in Central London last night, Sunday, 6th December, by winning the 21st McLaren Autosport BRDC Award and, with it, a prize Formula One test drive with the McLaren Mercedes F1 team.

The 21-year-old, from Wombourne, near Wolverhampton in the West Midlands, was named one of six finalists for the hugely prestigious award for the second time in three years back in October after becoming Formula Renault UK Champion with seven race victories and a total of 15 podium finishes from 18 races.

Not only does Dean follow in the wheeltracks of the likes of current Formula One World Champion Jenson Button as a winner of the McLaren Autosport BRDC Award, he has also written his name in the history books as the first ever driver to achieve the accolade having been a nominee on a previous occasion.

"Winning this award is the culmination of an incredible year", said Dean, "To be nominated for a second time was a great feeling but to actually win such a prestigious accolade is unbelievable. Adding my name to the list of former winners is very special and, obviously, I can't wait to be able to test the F1 car - that really will be a dream come true."

Source: Motorsport.com