John Surtees awarded a CBE in Britain's New Year Honours list

The Order of the British Empire "recognises distinguished service to the arts and sciences, public services outside the Civil Service and work with charitable and welfare organisations of all kinds".

After being made an Officer of the British Empire (OBE) in 2008, the 81-year-old has now been honoured with the more senior rank of Commander of the British Empire.

He was previously made a Member of the British Empire (MBE) in 1959.

The award recognises not only achievements as a competitor, but also his ongoing involvement in motorsport and charity work through the Henry Surtees Foundation, named in honour of his son, who lost his life in a Formula 2 crash at Brands Hatch in 2009.

The foundation provides vital support for those who have suffered injuries in accidents.

Motorsport fans have long lobbied for Surtees to be awarded a knighthood for his achievements, although Surtees himself has downplayed such calls when asked about the possibility.

Paddy Hopkirk, winner of the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, has also been recognised in the New Year's Honours list.

He has been made an MBE "for services to motoring and young people" in his capacity as patron of the SKIDZ motoring skills charity.