The 2000 Castrol/IMI Gold Medal has been awarded to Peugeot and its UK managing director Tod Evans.

The award, which recognises an individual, group or organisation judged to have made the most outstanding contribution to the UK motor industry, was presented to Mr Evans by His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent, Patron of the Institute of the Motor Industry, at its annual dinner last night.

Peugeot and Mr Evans won the award for its "record-breaking" performance and entry into the top three of UK manufacturers and their lobbying of the Government on environmental issues affecting motorists.

Mr Evans said: "I am honoured to accept this most distinguished award. At Peugeot we have seen steady, but healthy growth in our business over many years and our position as number three in the UK has been further strengthened by the success of our Coventry-built 206 model."

The other four nominations for the 2000 Castrol/IMI Gold Medal Award were the Morgan Motor Car Company, Lord March, chairman of Goodwood, David Richards and Prodrive and Peter Vardy, chairman of Reg Vardy.