Sunday Sun motorsports writer Zoe Burn has left the opposition trailing in her wake and landed a top national award.

‘Burning Rubber’ columnist Zoe, (29), was last week chosen as the first ever Hilton/BTCC Regional Journalist of the Year, coming out ahead of writers from all over Britain.

The award was launched this year by organisers of the BTCC – British Touring Car Championship – the UK’s leading racing car series, to find the best writer from non-specialist or national publication.

Judges were impressed by her continued coverage of local drivers James Thompson and Jason Plato, her ability to humanise them as more than just racing drivers through her column, as well as her knowledge and enthusiasm for the sport.

She said: “I’m over the moon, I’m still smiling about it.

“Ten years ago I was a hardened fan of the BTCC – I spent most of my student loan going to races all over the UK – and the reason I came into journalism was to write about racing.

“Now I get paid for something I love and I’ve won an award for it as well!

“The BTCC is a fantastic championship and this year has been the best for some time. You get the thrill of racing without the formality of F1… the drivers are approachable and the media centre on race day is always buzzing.

“I only started Burning Rubber last November so to receive this award in its first year, and my first year, is just great.”

As part of her prize, Zoe wins a European break in a Hilton hotel and will receive her award at a glitzy star-studded ceremony in London later this month.

The BTCC itself features race-prepared versions of road cars such as Vauxhall Vectras and Seat Cupras, driven by the world’s top drivers.

It is broadcast live on ITV1 throughout the summer and has grown into a multi-million pound industry.

The races are renowned internationally as the most competitive touring car series there is.

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