Prince Michael Of Kent Recognised By New Guild Of Motoring Writers And Kia Award

LONDON – Dec 9, 2013: The Guild of Motoring Writers, supported by Kia Motors, has presented its inaugural Special Award for Contribution to Motoring to His Royal Highness Prince Michael of Kent in recognition of a lifetime’s involvement in motoring and his particular commitment to road safety on the world stage.

Presented at the Guild’s Annual Dinner at the RAC Club in Pall Mall, London, the Prince received his award from Guild President Nick Mason and Kia’s Director of Corporate Communication, Stephen Kitson.

Kia and the Guild agreed to create the award to honour those individuals or organisations outside the world of motoring journalism who have made major contributions to motoring in general and specifically away from the media world.

Richard Aucock, Chairman of the Guild said: "The Guild has felt for some time it would like to celebrate outstanding achievements in motoring, so we are delighted Kia is supporting us in creating this new award. We will use it to honour those who make special contributions to motoring - a key part of our Charter - but who work outside of our regular media circles. His Royal Highness defines the criteria perfectly so it is a pleasure to honour him with the inaugural award."

Stephen Kitson said: “As Kia gets ready to celebrate its 70th year in the industry we felt it was only right to support the Guild, also marking its 70th year in 2014, which has always sought to promote excellence in motoring journalism and recognise excellence in the industry. His Royal Highness is absolutely the right person to receive this inaugural award due to his many and varied motoring interests and activities. We are delighted to mark his very special contribution to motoring and especially his commitment to improving road safety across the globe.”

Prince Michael of Kent is either President, Patron or Honorary Member of countless motoring organisations ranging from the Royal Automobile Club, the British Racing Drivers’ Club, the Institute of the Motor Industry, the Institute of Road Safety Officers to the Motor Sports Association, the National Motor Museum Trust, the Veteran Car Club, the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile and the Commission for Global Road Safety.

In 1987 the Prince initiated The Prince Michael International Road Safety Awards which recognises world-wide, outstanding achievements and innovations designed to improve road safety. Each year the most noteworthy examples of international road safety initiatives are given public recognition through the scheme. The Prince Michael International Road Safety Awards are considered to be the pre-eminent global road safety awards scheme.