Lawrence Tomlinson, the chairman of Ginetta Cars, has been nominated for the MIA's annual Outstanding Contribution to Motorsport award.

The award is handed out each year to an individual who is deemed to have made a significant difference to the motorsport industry, with past winners including Professor Sid Watkins, Sir Stirling Moss and Sir Jackie Stewart.

Tomlinson's nomination comes on the back of the continued success of Ginetta, which he purchased back in 2005. Since then, the new G50 has been launched and emerged as a successful addition to the Ginetta line-up, while the company has also entered into partnership with Zytek and made its debut in the Le Mans 24 Hours.

“I'm delighted to have been nominated for such a prestigious award in a year that has been difficult for the industry as a whole,” Tomlinson said. “When I bought Ginetta I had three main goals. Firstly I wanted to ensure we respected the heritage of this classic car. Secondly I wanted to offer young drivers a realistic entry point into racing. And finally I wanted to carry the brand forward by making sure we are the forefront of motoring technology developments.

“I am proud to say that I think we are achieving all three goals and the year ahead will be a very exciting one for us.”

It's not the first time the MIA has recognised the work done by Tomlinson and his team – just last year Ginetta was awarded 'Small Business of the Year' by the body.