TEENAGER Sam Bilham secured a prestigious title – without even having to compete.

The Bingley prospect was crowned winner of the MSA English Rally Championship Junior Driver award after the Tempest Rally, the final round of the series.

Bilham did not take part in the event but, after his best five scores were counted and finalised, he was confirmed as the champion by nine points ahead of nearest rival Ryan Weston.

Having already secured the BTRDA Gravel Series Rally First 1.0-litre championship at the Woodpecker Stages Rally in August, this accolade is yet another success from 18-year-old Bilham's inaugural year on a gravel surface and rounds off what has been a dream season.

His most recent action saw him head to the Glyn Memorial Trophy Stages at Anglesey in Wales in a bid to secure the F1000 Senior Tarmac Rally Championship title.

After winning every single stage of the gruelling 60-mile event, Bilham emerged as class F victor and, in doing so, scooped yet another title to add to the collection during his 2014 season.

The Nissan Micra driver admitted: "I've been on tenterhooks all weekend. I knew that one little error could mean the difference between victory and throwing away all the hard work that we have put into this year, so I had to drive sensibly.

"It's a great feeling to win yet another championship to add to my CV and it's been a fantastic experience.

"I'm really proud of the MSA English Championship title and it means a lot to win that on top of all the other awards. It's been an amazing experience."

Bilham dedicated his successes to his support team, saying: "I'd really like to thank them for all their hard work throughout the season.

"My co-drivers, Gareth Hooper and Graham Wild, have been fantastic – and of course my father, who has been instrumental in my motorsport career.

"I'd also like to thank Martin Wild for ensuring the car ran like clockwork and 'The Next Big Step' award for their support during the year."