Bingley-based Formula 1000 driver Sam Bilham has earned a prestigious prize to help in his quest to become a top competitor.

The Nissan Micra driver finished fourth in the Kick Energy Junior 1000 Rally Championship this season and was chosen to receive the Next Big Step award.

Bilham’s prize includes eight free entries into British Trial & Rally Drivers Association (BTRDA) events next year and free tyres from manufacturers Dunlop.

“We had a big list of applicants and Sam stood out from them all,” said Next Big Step founder Ian Arden.

“He’s worked hard this year to prepare his car to a high level and he’s got great potential for the future.”

Bilham won the junior section of the Hall Trophy Stages and was selected to join the Motor Sports Association Academy this year.

His first full year in the Junior 1000 series was 2012 and he finished second of the drivers making their debut on the circuit.

Competing in BTRDA events means Bilham will be gaining experience of forest rallying on loose surfaces after the mainly tarmac events of the last two seasons.

His first event will be the Wyedean Stages, based in Chepstow, in February.