THE accolades just keep on coming for Lewis Hamilton after the 23-year-old was crowned International Driver of the Year at the Autosport Awards in London last night (Sunday). Hamilton took the prestigious title for the second year in a row after a dramat

THE accolades just keep on coming for Lewis Hamilton after the 23-year-old was crowned International Driver of the Year at the Autosport Awards in London last night (Sunday).

Hamilton took the prestigious title for the second year in a row after a dramatic season, which saw him claim the Drivers' Championship by a single point from Felipe Massa.

Hamilton has a long standing relationship with the awards as it was here that 13 years ago he famously strode up to McLaren boss Ron Dennis and exclaimed: "Hi, I'm Lewis Hamilton and I'd like to race for you one day."

The rest is history and the F1 champion from Tewin said he felt honoured to receive the award.

"It's kind of overwhelming. To receive an award, any award, is always a major privilege, and holding this one, it reminds me of all the times I've been to the Autosport Awards before, even my first time."

Hamilton was presented with the gong by McLaren legend Mika Hakkinen, who won the Drivers' Championship in consecutive years in 1998 and 1999 under Dennis' stewardship.

"To see what a journey it's been and see the number of people that have made it possible for me, makes me very proud," added Hamilton.

The year of 2008 could get even better for Hamilton when the BBC Sports Personality of the Year is announced on Sunday, December 14.

Hamilton is one of the 10 nominees for the award although he has recently been overtaken as the bookies' favourite by Olympic swimming hero Rebecca Adlington.