Derek Tohill has been named as the Irish International Driver of the Year at the prestigious Dunlop/Motorsport Ireland Awards. The winner of the 2013 FIA European Rallycross Championship in the Touring Car category received the Manley Memorial Trophy at a ceremony held in the Marker Hotel.

Derek had a remarkable year on the ultra tough European Rallycross circuit securing some great results and four wins driving his Ford Fiesta Mk7 RWD, against the cream of European Rallycross drivers. He is now planning to go on and complete in a new World Championship in 2014. 

The Manley Memorial Trophy is awarded by a select panel of motorsport media to the driver who has not only proven to be a success on the track but also has acted as a positive role model and ambassador for the sport.

At the ceremony other awards went to Stephen Wright, of Monaghan, who won the Billy Coleman Award as the Young Rally Driver of the Year. He will receive €50,000 worth of support to compete in stage rallies nationally and internationally in 2014. Dubliner Niall Murray was named the Young Racing Driver of the Year after some very impressive performances including victory at the Formula Ford Festival at Brands Hatch.